International Journal of
Information and Education Technology

Abstract

Most engineers and technicians are schooled in technical standards and analysis techniques to prevent material failure, malfunctions or performance problems, but many technical people are not formally schooled in ‘effective communication standards’ or ‘good people skills’ to prevent relationship failures and serious conflicts. Infighting, conflict, fear of speaking openly, tension, lack of respect and strained relationships are very common in many working environments, however, these problems are predictable, avoidable and solvable. This paper summarizes good values, attitudes and practical ‘negotiation skills’ that have been proven to be effective and even adopted as ‘best practices’ in other fields, such as business management, sales, politics and psychology. In order to avoid and resolve heated conflicts, people must be aware of common bad attitudes that need to be identified, corrected and avoided. Good ‘people skills’ can also be used effectively to overcome disagreements and conflicts between engineers and technical people, including students, who have little or no formal training in human psychology and basic principles of effective communication, negotiation and conflict resolution.