There are a number of ways you can solve conflicts. Compromise is one of these solutions, and it involves give and take -- both people involved get some of what they wanted, but neither receives 100 percent of what he wanted. Compromise has a number of advantages, because it keeps things running smoothly by avoiding clear "winners" and "losers." It is important to think of these advantages whenever you have a conflict.

One advantage of compromise is that everyone involved is partially satisfied. Nobody receives exactly what he wants, but everyone does receive a portion of what they want. By encouraging everyone to give a little, everyone involved is also able to take a little, which makes the solution partially positive for everyone and clears the conflict up quickly.

Compromise can be achieved quickly. This is important for situations where the conflict is keeping people from reaching a deadline or completing an important task. By reaching a quick compromise, the issue is dealt with speedily and everyone can keep moving forward. This keeps major projects from being thwarted by petty conflicts.

When you compromise with someone, you are showing that you are willing to give a little. This can be extremely beneficial going forward -- the compromise now can secure further, smoother relations with the same person in the future because your actions have indicated that you don't stonewall whenever there is a conflict. This is particularly beneficial in sales and running a small business because you can secure an ongoing client by compromising during one of your first interactions, thus making the entire relationship more valuable.

Compromise highlights something that is often forgotten in personal and business relationships: their mutually beneficial nature. By compromising, you are showing exactly what you stand to gain and lose from a transaction, as well as emphasizing what the other person stands to gain and lose. By demonstrating this through your actions, you are making the entire process more transparent for everyone involved.