Q&A for How to Be Diplomatic

Diplomatic skills include active listening, speaking tactfully and respectfully, and the ability to see multiple points of view.

Yes. Diplomatic skills often prevent issues from escalating to conflict as diplomatic people can see both sides of a problem.

A diplomatic person would be able to facilitate an agreement between two coworkers with conflicting views of how a project should go and resolve the problem with each coworker feeling like their needs and interests were addressed.

A diplomatic person is one who can see both sides of an issue or the needs of multiple groups of people and help navigate issues and needs to achieve positive results.

Sometimes the only way to move past an issue at work is to reach out to a third party for mediation. Use the other person's input to come up with a solution rather than asking them to pick someone who is right and someone who is wrong.

If someone criticizes you, say something like, "Hey thanks for your feedback. You seem really passionate about this topic. You may be seeing something I'm not. Can you share your thoughts with me about this?"

Recognize your husband's input. After he shares his perspective, compliment him, even if you still disagree. Acknowledging him may help you both move on and work together more effectively in the future.

Listen to what they have to say, even if it's hard. When you ask your boss for their opinion, they may feel a sense of purpose or even righteousness. Even if you don't care for the person, hold it in for the sake of trying to understand the person and resolve the issue.

Your best bet is to back up your opinion with some factual substance so that they can see that you are presenting an informed opinion.

Practice thinking through different scenarios in your head. Consider how to approach them in a clear, well structured manner. With practice, you will be able to think up something diplomatic in the moment, because you will be used to thinking diplomatically. If something seems risky or offensive, it is often better to be quiet and outwardly agree with the other party, rather than making a scene.

It is technically possible get people to accept an incorrect idea in a diplomatic manner, though this isn't the goal of diplomacy. The ultimate goal of diplomacy is for two or more parties to work out a solution to a mutual problem which is agreeable to all involved. On a more personal level, being diplomatic just means being sensitive and agreeable.

You could tell them what will be their gains,in terms of money, incentive or any other development, if they accomplish the task given by you. The most important inspiration for someone to be motivated is to awaken their belief system. Try to inspire them internally if possible.

It depends on what you are disclosing. In some instances it's better to keep your thoughts to yourself. For instance if you are fully aware that the information may hurt a person, and it's not something they need to know, don't tell them.

Remember that the whole point of being diplomatic is being sensitive to the issues at hand and coming to an agreeable resolution. So, make sure you fully understand the other party's concerns before you begin writing. Also, make sure you write formally and avoid using offensive language.

Let him finish and then calmly negotiate, but if he gets abusive, call 911.

Maybe just ignore them. If this doesn't work, invite them for coffee or just try to get along with them.

Do not react immediately or get aggressive or defensive. Step away from the situation and take deep breaths to give yourself time to process your emotions.

Try to keep your expressions and voice neutral, but not in such a way that you sound monotonous. Smiling slightly while you talk may help to modulate your tone.

In such a case, maybe there is more to the issue at hand than you can see now. Wait and gain a better perspective and listen to their views. Sometimes reason and diplomacy can be difficult to achieve if bigger issues are standing in the way.

Make sure to listen to what they have to say, as it may help you to understand their point of view. If there is a disagreement, be sure to stay calm and not become angry as you're talking through the situation with them to try to come to a win-win resolution.

Report it to her superior, such as the principal. Ideally, you could also get your parent involved and take some recordings of any incidents if possible.