The Conflict Beneath the Conflict

Most workplace conflicts aren’t about facts—they’re about emotions. Learn how to uncover hidden triggers, repair relationships, and turn team tension into stronger collaboration and results.

Workplace conflict rarely begins with facts—it begins with emotions. In this book, conflict expert Tish Robinson reveals why most workplace disputes persist: Leaders focus on procedures while ignoring the emotional triggers that drive resentment, misunderstanding, and team breakdown. Drawing on twenty-five years of research and global consulting, Robinson introduces a practical framework for uncovering the real source of conflict and transforming tension into stronger working relationships.

At the center of the book is Robinson’s mediator mindset and the memorable 2HUGS framework, a set of tools that helps managers slow emotional reactivity and guide employees toward genuine resolution. Readers learn how to

• identify emotional triggers and unmet needs rooted not just in work issues but also in childhood baggage or personal challenges,
• reframe “facts” as perspectives to reduce defensiveness and encourage reflection,
• facilitate dialogue that helps colleagues resolve conflict themselves rather than imposing top-down solutions, and
• repair damaged relationships across cultural, generational, and personality differences.

Perfect for frontline managers, HR professionals, and team leaders, this book reframes conflict as a signal—not a failure. When leaders learn to surface the emotions beneath disagreement, conflict becomes an opportunity for trust, growth, and stronger teams.

Standard and Primary covers are widely available through general retailers. They often have higher print runs and can be cheaper, especially during sales.

In contrast, Direct Market (DM) and variant covers are primarily sold in comic shops. DM editions tend to have more limited availability and may be more valuable to collectors.

The main differences lie in artwork style, availability, price, and collector appeal. Ultimately, the choice between standard and variant covers depends on personal preference, budget, and individual collecting goals.

Comic book enthusiasts have various formats to choose from when collecting their favorite stories.
Here's a brief overview of the main types:

Omnibus

• Large, hardcover collections
• Usually contain complete runs or extensive story arcs
• Typically 800-1000+ pages
• Higher price point, often €100-€150

Oversized Hardcover (OHC)

• Similar dimensions to omnibus, but thinner
• Collect shorter runs or story arcs
• Usually 300-600 pages
• Priced between €30-€50

Hardcover (HC)

• Standard-sized hardcover books
• Collect 6-12 issues typically
• Similar dimensions to single issues, but with a hard cover
• Priced around €25-€35

Trade Paperback (TP)

• Softcover collections
• Standard comic book size
• Usually collect 4-6 issues
• Most affordable option, typically €15-€25

Other Formats

• Absolute Editions: Oversized, deluxe hardcovers (mainly DC Comics)
• Compendiums: Massive paperback collections
• Graphic Novels (OGN/GN): Original stories not previously released as single issues

The choice between these formats often depends on personal preference, budget, and collecting goals. Omnibus and OHC editions offer larger artwork and more content but at a higher price, while TPs provide a more affordable way to collect complete story arcs