How to Resolve Workplace Conflicts Comtex News Network Liquid Africa Michael Drennan and Mindy Konno
What is Conflict? (Article View) Conflict – A sharp disagreement or opposition of interest of ideas It is estimated that managers spend at least 25% of their time resolving workplace conflicts In any social environment, conflict is both inevitable and normal
What is Conflict? (Book View) Conflict – One party perceives its interests are being opposed or set back by another party. Functional vs. Dysfunctional Major Forms of Conflict - Personality Conflict - InterGroup Conflict - Cross-Cultural Conflict
Types of Conflict Miscommunication usually primary cause. We can categorize others under: Difference in opinion, interests and values Difference in sex Difference in culture, background and upbringing Unclear roles and expectations Personality clash Language difference
How do we incorrectly react to conflict? The Ostrich Model: Avoids, pretends, runs away from the issue, preferring not to rock the boat. The Charging Buffalo: Aggression with the view to defeat, every conflict has a winner and loser and you intend to win. I Dont Care Attitude: Where nobody takes or seeks responsibility but watches as conflict builds up into destruction. The Cassava Model: This involves treating the symptoms as the root causes grow bigger.
Barriers to communication Anger Silence Interruptions Defensiveness Ridicule Tears False agreement
How do we correctly react to conflict? Compromise!! By finding some middle ground you can both win! Problem Solving!! Deal with the problem openly to find a solution that benefits everyone.
Managing Conflict Programmed Conflict -Devils Advocacy -Dialectic Method
Third Party Interventions Facilitation Conciliation Peer Review Ombudsman Mediation Arbitration
Communication is an Art!! Try not to react in anger. Knowing your own weaknesses. Respecting other peoples views.
Conclusion: Conflict is inevitable! How you react to conflict will determine outcome! Communication is the Key!
Any Questions?