Workplace 101: A Profiles Global Business Blog

Relationship experts sometimes encourage couples to fight. Some topics need to be argued out and fights can actually strengthen a relationship. Your organization will also face conflict. Anytime a group of people come together, there will be some level of differing in opinions.

The recession that began in 2007 was the worst economic downturn our country has seen since the Great Depression. Family-owned business Humtown Products was hit on all sides. The company saw its industry’s profits as a whole drop 65 percent. The company’s customers were going out of business left and right. Humtown was forced to lay off the majority of its workforce and went from 200 employees to 20 employees in two months.

Today, many companies face pressure to retain their very best, high performing employees. However, some of these employees can be ‘difficult’ at times. Or as we have suitably named this report, “Jerks, Prima Donnas, Divas, and Hotheads.”

When it comes to selecting a high performing team, team assessments are essential, especially when conflicts arise. Here’s a common scenario:

You’ve assembled an expert team of workers who fit their jobs well and are aligned with organizational goals. They are high performers and you could not be more pleased with each of them individually.

In a perfect world, work would always be enjoyable, and work environments would promote productivity and engagement. Unfortunately, this is rarely the case. People find themselves in sticky situations or conflict with coworkers. Some personalities and behaviors are oil and water, and they will never mix. Fortunately, the right employee assessments can nip co-worker conflict in the bud, and minimize drama and disruption.

For decades, Zig Ziglar has motivated and inspired millions of people to be better at whatever they do for a living. Zig's ideas about creating a sense of urgency are exemplified in his "Day Before Vacation" story. This technique can have a tremendous effect on your productivity, and the ability to motivate employees.