Essential life skills to learn at International Conference

Skills in conflict resolution, negotiation and managing emotions will be presented at the 2007 International Women's Conference to be held in Toowoomba, 26 to 28 September and Springfield on 29 September.

One of 10 keynote speakers Robyn Gaspari will deliver her address on How to deal with conflict from a woman's perspective on the Saturday of the conference at USQ Springfield.

Robyn's address will detail essential elements needed for successful conflict resolution that can be applied in everyday situations.

'After 20 years of presenting this information I've learnt there are five key elements to have in meetings, negotiations and discussions.

'You can apply the information from my presentation to different situations from sorting things out in the family home or negotiating in the boardroom. '

Managing Director of Gaspari Consultants Pty Ltd Robyn has been an international consultant for conflict resolution and one of two advisors to the Australian Government Delegation to the United Nations Commission for the Status of Women in New York.

'I'll also be talking about the fact that women approach conflict from a different perspective to men,' Robyn said.

'The whole approach of women is more collaborative than confrontational.'

Although the presentation will be delivered from a woman's perspective, the tools and strategies will be useful for men as well, Robyn said.

'In resolving conflicts it is important to maintain personal power. Personal power is things like your self confidence, keeping your cool when people are being confrontational and when you are resolving conflicts.'

'I'll cover the four aspects of conflict resolution and provide tools and strategies people can use.

Tips on preparing for negotiation will also be provided in the presentation.

'Managing our emotions is important. It's necessary to distinguish between emotional attachment rather than professional detachment.

'Whether you are male or female these skills are essential in negotiation.'

The International Women's Conference starts on Wednesday 26 September in Toowoomba. Robyn's address starts at 10:30am on Saturday 29 September at the USQ Springfield Campus.

Registrations for the conference can be made by phoning the conference committee on 4631 5746.

Media Contact: Jane Urquhart USQ Media +61 7 4631 2559