Fisher Law Practice, P.C.
The Law Offices of Genesis Fisher, Esq.
Workplace Conflict Resolution, Coaching &
Respectful Divorces for Professionals
Greetings!

You know what they say about icebergs...only a fraction is visible above the surface. Most of it is below the water line.

This is a classic analogy for how we communicate. In the conflict resolution field, we talk about positions and interests. Someone's POSITION is their demand, request, or threat. Positions are what they want to settle the problem, but only represent a fraction of what's going on.

Below the surface are a person's INTERESTS. These are the NEEDS that motivate someone; what they are protecting or seeking. Interests are their values, what’s in their heart. Examples: respect, safety, companionship, reputation, autonomy.

In mediation, we are always trying to uncover a person's interests. When we can identify the interests, we can find a way to connect and better understand what they need. It's through the interests that we find commonalities and see the humanity in each other.


What does this mean in practice?

Position : Get your dog out of my yard!
Interest s: I want to feel safe on my property and I don't think you respect my space.

Position : I didn't have money to invest, but I should still get 50% of the business.
Interests : My labor and network have created substantial value that should be recognized.

Position : My roommate is a hoarder and needs to throw out her stuff.
Interests : I feel overwhelmed, anxious and claustrophobic at home. Neat, open spaces help me relax.

Position : It's not fair that I make less than my male colleague! I demand a raise!
Interests : I want to be paid what I'm worth and I want to trust that my work product, not my gender, dictate my pay and treatment.


Active listening is so important right now. These questions are just a few that can help you uncover a person's interests: 

  • Share with me, why is this important to you?
  • Tell me more about your experience...
  • What matters most to you in this situation?
  • What led you to decide to _____?
  • Tell me more about the impact of ________...
  • How can I support you?


In order to really understand someone, we can't just listen TO their words, we have to listen FOR their interests. Listen for their values, their needs. Listen for what's in their hearts.
Announcing Our COVID Workplace Dialogue Series!

Social distancing creates challenges to the way we work, interact and socialize. For some, this has been frustrating. For others, traumatizing. We can all agree this is very hard. 

Your staff is thinking about:

  • What to do for child care or care for a sick person if they have to return to the office.
  • Frustration about the inability to do activities they love, the things they need to refresh.
  • Being isolated and alone for months and what re-connecting in person will look like.
  • Mourning the loss of someone close to them.
  • The inequalities the pandemic has brought to the surface.
  • Economic uncertainty and the increased pressure to provide for their families.

Your entire team needs support. To fill that need, we created a COVID Workplace Dialogue Series. One hour a week, for five weeks, we’ll facilitate important discussions that address the questions and anxieties in the back of your staff’s minds. Providing a dedicated space to share helps employees stay focused. And in a time when we are so dispersed, it helps them reconnect.

Cohorts of up to 20 employees will talk about:

  • Week 1: The pressures of home life and family.
  • Week 2: Anxiety, illness and loss.
  • Week 3: Uncertainty and vulnerability in the economy and what it means for you.
  • Week 4: The pandemic and inequality.
  • Week 5: Identifying needs and how to create a supportive environment.

Our first cohorts start in June! Click here for more information.
Upcoming Events and Announcements

June 4, 2020, Smith College Club of New York City
Webinar: 5 Things You Need to Know about Understanding & Managing Conflict
Genesis discussed the roots of conflict and explores a key skill for active listening that will help you communicate more effectively and diffuse tension.


June 30, 2020, New York City Bar Association
Virtual Panel: Negotiation in the Age of Covid
How has social distancing and the new court structure changed litigation? Genesis and Mary Austin will discuss strategic and practical concerns.
Our Office's COVID-19 Response

Mediation
All mediation sessions will be held via Zoom until September 15th.

Coaching
All sessions will continue to be held by phone or Zoom.

Legal Representation
Most New York State Courts are closed to all by essential staff and emergency/time-sensitive matters. Courts will slowly open over the course of the next two months. Electronic filing is now available.

Meetings
All client meetings will be held on Zoom.

All other case work (negotiations, drafting documents, etc.) is moving forward as normal.
Need Workplace Mediation, Executive Coaching, or
Help with a Divorce?
Call Us Today!

 195 Montague Street, 14th floor
Brooklyn, NY 11201
Phone: 917.819.5656
Email: info@fisherlawpractice.nyc