Remain focused on the issue at hand, avoiding personal emotions during this discussion. To avoid or resolve conflicts that have the potential to negatively influence the organization’s productivity, follow these steps to find the best solution possible: 1.
Related: Problem-Solving Skills: Definitions and Examples How to use conflict resolution in the workplace This method is not often identified as bringing satisfactory resolutions, as it doesn’t allow for collaborative problem-solving. CompetingĬompeting is an uncooperative, overly assertive method used by people who insist on winning the dispute at all costs. Related: Teamwork Skills: Definition and Examples 5. For example, a salesperson and client may work together to negotiate contract terms until both parties find it agreeable. Like the compromising method, collaboration involves working with the other party to find a mutually agreeable solution to a problem. It is appropriate to compromise when it would not be possible to make both sides completely happy while still moving forward. Compromise can also be used as a temporary method to avoid conflict until the parties involved can implement a more permanent solution. This can be a quick way to resolve a conflict without it becoming a bigger issue. Both parties willingly forfeit some of their conditions in the interest of reaching an agreement. CompromisingĪlso known as reconciling, compromising seeks a mutual agreement to settle a dispute. However, avoidance can require more effort than merely facing the problem and can cause friction between the disagreeing parties. There are situations in which avoiding conflict can be an appropriate response, such as when there is no clear solution or a frustrated party needs time to calm down before confrontation. Avoiding allows them to ignore that there is a problem. People tend to avoid conflict when they do not wish to engage in it. This method involves simply ignoring the fact that there may be a conflict. This method allows you the chance to resolve a problem in the short term while working toward a long-term solution. For example, if your opinion on the matter is not very strong, it is often easier to comply. In some cases, accommodating can be an appropriate resolution to conflict. This method of conflict resolution, also known as smoothing, involves one party acquiescing, giving the opposing party exactly what it needs to resolve the problem. There are five common methods to resolve conflicts in the workplace: Related: Conflict Resolution Skills: Definition and Examples What are the 5 conflict resolution strategies? A quick, amicable resolution can help maintain peace and morale in the workplace and prevent disruptions in productivity. Resolving conflicts effectively can prevent tension between disagreeing employees from spreading to other employees not involved in the original conflict. Related: Interview Question: “How Do You Handle Conflict in the Workplace?” What is conflict resolution?Ĭonflict resolution is a way for opposing parties to find a peaceful solution to their disagreement that leaves all parties reasonably satisfied.Ĭonflict resolution can be done formally or informally in workplaces and is known to facilitate the following: Build strong relationshipsĮffective conflict resolution skills can serve to reduce any discontent that could damage working relationships, facilitate better collaboration between coworkers and, as a result, construct strong working relationships between employees. In this article, we discuss five different types of conflict resolution and how to use conflict resolution in the workplace. In the workplace, there are many instances in which conflict can happen between coworkers, and when it does, it is important to resolve the situation before it escalates. Conflict is a struggle that can arise during an active disagreement of opinions or interests.
Nearly every area of life sometimes requires implementing effective conflict resolution strategies.