Conflict is inevitable; litigation is optional. Mediation expert Rich Birke joins Sales POP! to share a masterclass in de-escalating high-stakes business disputes. The key? Predictability and Vulnerability. Building trust requires leaders to model the transparency they expect from their teams. In our digital-first world, Berk warns against "impulse responding," suggesting video calls over text to maintain emotional nuance. By identifying stakeholder "hot spots" early and using structured frameworks for complex disputes, leaders can protect their company culture and bottom line. Master these soft skills to turn organizational friction into a competitive advantage and lead with authentic authority.