Conflict in the workplace is undesirable but unavoidable. Whenever conflict arises, the approach utilized to handle it is crucial in determining whether a solution will be arrived at or whether an escalation will be inevitable. Here are the 5 most important tips to handle and amicably resolve any conflict.
Establish communication
Communication is the first important step towards ensuring that the right atmosphere is maintained for conflict resolution. Without communication, the conflict will undoubtedly linger for long and thus stand a chance to escalate. Communication during conflict resolution has to do with becoming an active listener as well as being able to channel your views effectively and without adverse emotions.
Thinking rationally
Rational thought is crucial when it comes to being able to understand issues raised by the other party in a conflict. Thinking and acting rationally amounts to putting yourself in the other party’s shoes which helps to see their point of view in the argument. Thinking rationally also helps in ensuring that both parties get to the heart of the matter as quickly and effectively as possible.
Determine all arguments presented
Each side within the conflict probably has a clear point to put across. To help in the effective handling of such a conflict, it is important to ensure that all points of agreement and disagreement are clearly outlined. The areas of agreement allow the conflicting parties to build a good rapport and basis for resolving the points of disagreement. Each individual’s assessment on the points of disagreement should be treated with equal importance until a universal agreement is reached upon.
Develop a clear plan for resolution
The conflicting parties should then come together and establish a clear plan on how to go about resolving the matters at hand. In most cases, such a plan should be comprised of the right approach to be used, whether to involve a third-party mediator or not, official meeting times and venues, duration by when the conflict should be resolved, and how to prevent future conflicts from erupting.
Developing a good relationship
In the course of resolving the conflict, the relationship between the conflicting parties probably gets better by the day. It is important to build on such success by complementing the insights and achievements received from either party. Sticking to the entire plan and agreement arrived at the end ensures that the good relationship is cemented for the long-term benefit of conflict avoidance.
Originally published on MarkGerardot.net