subject: Ways To Deal With Conflict [print this page] Conflict management is an integral part of successful business administration. Research shows that managers often spend as much as 20 percent of their work day trying to resolve conflict. Although conflict is a common workplace issue, it is important to recognize the sources of conflict and implement strategies to solve problems.
Another way to solve conflict between employees is Collaboration. Collaboration is when you search for a solution that meets the needs of both parties involving the conflict. Using this method not only will the conflict be solved, but both parties will be satisfied. Schermerhorn Management Edition 10 also explains and agrees with this conflict resolving method.
Constant gives and takes. Every human is unique and we all come with our own goodness and flaws. It is irrational to expect our partner to be perfect and do exactly as what we expect. As long as it is within the acceptable limit, it is useful to close one eye every now and then to avoid unnecessary conflicts. A little give and take will take you far in a happy life together.
You cannot allow yourself to become distracted by what else may be going on around you, or by forming counter arguments that you'll make when the other person stops speaking. Nor can you allow yourself to lose focus on what the other person is saying. All of these barriers contribute to a lack of listening and understanding.
The easiest way to blow a situation out of proportion is to act angrily. Keep your voice low and under control. Keep your arms at your side. Attack the problem from the perspective of a teammate rather than placing blame.
For some this means tempering their instinctive reaction of lashing out and hitting back. For others it is learning how to stand their ground and remain calm even whilst their heart is pumping loudly in their chest and they feel as if they can barely breathe. Often it involves not only the ability to change your own emotional reaction but also to help the other person to change state and shift back into a more logical pattern of thought and action as well.
When we are angry we often have thoughts of how to retaliate against someone or force someone's hand in order to get our way. However, situations of conflict are rarely one-sided and frequently consist of wants and needs that can be solved by compromise.
Do Not Carry A Grudge - Be professional, understanding that what happened in the past, happened. Assume the other person wants a clean start or a better outcome on this encounter than they had on the last. Start fresh, old baggage simply gets in the way.
Always listen to your partner's viewpoint, and re-examine your own concerns in light of the other's worries. You will often find that your own fears have been quelled. Finally, never be afraid to admit that you are wrong, or that you are sorry if you have had a row. With care and forethought for each other's concerns, any relationship will grow from strength to strength.
