Every day, somewhere in the world, hostage negotiators confront the most violent disputes imaginable and report a success rate exceeding 90 percent. Who are the “hostages at the table” in your organization? Although the answers may sometimes surprise, readers will never forget the lessons for setting them free.

Conflict is a part of our everyday human behavior that stems from a basic fight–or–flight instinct that is hardwired into our brains. Too often, however, we believe that conflict is something that must be avoided at all costs. This tendency to suppress conflict can spark a cascade of negative emotions that eventually derail managers, leaders, and organizations. In this book, George Kohlrieser explains that it is only by openly facing conflict that we can truly address the most difficult business challenges. It reveals how the proven techniques and psychological insights used in hostage negotiation can be applied successfully to any personal or business relationship. Step by step, George outlines seven key factors that anyone can use to remove the blocks that stand in the way of resolving tough problems. He shows how business leaders in particular can develop and access the skills they need to create trust and a positive mindset in their companies.

Filled with dramatic and compelling stories of true-to-life hostage situations, Hostage at the Table is a thoroughly researched book that shows you how to: