Q: Many days I’m shocked at how badly many people behave at work. I know if I criticize people, I’ll just start a fight. How can I inspire better behavior without generating lots of conflict?

A: You’ll inspire improvements without generating conflict, if you “accuse” people of being better than they are. Instead of negative feedback, offer a positive explanation for the behavior of others.

If your coworker is sloppy you could say, “Hey, I know your work is generally very accurate. Could you look at these numbers again?” People you work with will never argue with you after you compliment them (even if the compliment isn’t true). People will often live up or down to the feedback you give them.

When you provide your coworkers with a positive explanation, you’re giving them aspirational g

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