You cannot prevent all conflicts

Conflict-resolution strategies can help maintain a healthy work environment

Conflicts are common in the workplace, and conflict-resolution strategies can help managers solve conflicts and maintain a healthy work environment.

Definition:

A conflict is an intense disagreement that can occur when two or more stakeholders have different opinions or interests.

What are the conflict triggers?

- Poor communication

- Unrealistic performance expectations

- Poor time management

- Unclear roles and responsibilities

What Are Conflict Resolution Strategies?

• Withdraw/Avoid

• Smooth/Accommodate

• Compromise/Reconcile

• Force/Direct

• Collaborate/Problem-Solve

Withdraw/Avoid

In this approach, you will avoid or retreat from the conflict and allow it to resolve itself. This technique can be used when the stakes are low, and the conflict is likely to disappear on its own.

Smooth/Accommodate

You find areas of agreement, try to smooth out the situation, and circumvent tough discussions. The smoothing technique gives more consideration to one party than the other. You downplay the seriousness and behave as if the conflict never existed.

Compromise/Reconcile

In this conflict-management strategy, you will take suggestions from both sides and partially satisfy them. This technique is useful when the stakeholders involved hold equal power.

Force/Direct

In this conflict-management strategy, you will agree with one party’s viewpoint and enforce their wishes. This is a win-lose situation and risks demoralizing the team.

Collaborate/Problem-Solve

In a collaborative conflict-resolution strategy, you will discuss the issue with all parties and agree on a solution while considering multiple viewpoints.

You cannot prevent all conflicts, but the following practices can help you reduce them:

- Establish Ground Rules: These can help discipline team members, which will result in less conflict.

- Form an Effective Communication Plan: This can help you avoid many conflicts. Define how much and how often you will communicate with your stakeholders.

- Form a Better Stakeholder Management Plan: Your project will be successful if your stakeholders are happy. Project management is all about managing stakeholder requirements.

- Solve Conflict Early: This takes little time and effort. It also prevents an unresolved conflict from resurfacing later.

Summary

Conflict can occur at any time, and unresolved conflicts are not conducive to the work environment. They can become a significant issue affecting employee morale and work efficiency. Therefore, you must intervene and solve the conflict as soon as possible.

source used: *pmstudycirle