10 Guidelines to constructive Conflict Resolution
Background of Conflict Resolution
Conflict is a natural occurrence in interactions with others. Although we cannot remove conflict altogether, we can adopt certain strategies to manage ourselves better and to deal more cooperatively and strategically with conflict situations.
Importance of Conflict Management in the Workspace
Learning to deal more constructively and strategically with conflict can enhance individual and organisational productivity and encourage more cohesiveness in the workplace.
Conflict is a natural occurrence in interactions with others. Although we cannot remove conflict altogether, we can adopt certain strategies to manage ourselves better and to deal more cooperatively and strategically with conflict situations.
Importance of Conflict Management in the Workspace
Learning to deal more constructively and strategically with conflict can enhance individual and organisational productivity and encourage more cohesiveness in the workplace.
10 Guidelines for successful conflict resolution
- Don’t be afraid of conflict, there is always a solution if you are willing to hear and understand each other’s point of view
- Approach the other person to suggest looking for a mutually acceptable solution
- Display a positive and cooperative attitude
- Communicate in a way that shows respect and willingness to work together on a solution
- Listen with the intention to understand
- Avoid jumping to any assumptions
- Ask to set aside sufficient time to deal with the issue
- Be specific about what is bothering you
- Deal with only one issue at a time
- Don’t make it personal; attacking areas of personal sensitivity creates an atmosphere of distrust, anger, and vulnerability
- Try not to generalise – Avoid using words like “never” or “always”
