From Conflict to Collaboration: Conflict Resolution Strategies

Conflict can be resolved by using a Communication Cycle that gets at the root issues and causes of conflict. 

All individuals within organizations experience conflict; this is not unusual. What is unusual—and very effective—is when leaders can handle this conflict in a way that encourages problem-solving and solutions in which all parties get their needs met. This way of managing conflict creates lasting resolutions. Conflict can be resolved by using a Communication Cycle that gets at the root issues and causes of conflict. In this way, conflict does not become a debilitating reason employee and customer needs are not met.

Your organization’s leaders and others may need these skills if:

• Arguments and disagreements are not dealt with when they initially occur.
• Individuals avoid each other because of unresolved conflict.
• Certain individuals tend to get their needs met while others do not.
• Emotion takes over any discussion or disagreement and clouds the true issues.
• There is low involvement and trust in solving problems which cause conflict.

Learning Outcomes:

• Use a communication to understand the needs of others and to advocate for your own position.
• Identify a means of resolving conflict appropriate to the situation.
• Recognize different personal styles of handling conflict.
• Manage the strong emotions which arise during conflict.
• Work collaboratively to find solutions that meet all needs.
• Handle conflict between groups by using group problem-solving methods.