Leaders are responsible for creating a work environment that encourages employees to contribute and grow. Disagreements are inevitable in the workplace. If these disagreements arise and escalate into interpersonal conflict, leaders need to intervene immediately to restore balance in the workplace.
Conflict resolution is a skill that any leader can acquire with preparation and regular practice. When resolving conflict, it is important to recognize when to use particular conflict management techniques based on the situation and the people involved.
Here are five conflict management strategies that are useful for anyone who faces conflict. Each approach works well in different situations, and it’s important to understand when to use each approach and how others may perceive your approach.
1. Competition
This is an assertive but not very cooperative approach, as it is a power-oriented approach, with individuals pursuing their own interests over the financial affairs of others. This approach is best used in situations that require quick, life-or-death decisions, such as in an emergency.
2. Help, please
This is a non-assertive but cooperative approach, and it is the opposite of the competitive approach. Leaders who use this style may put their own interests aside to satisfy the needs of others. This approach may work best when the problem at hand is more important to others than to you, or when maintaining harmony and unity in the organization is a priority.
3. Avoidance
This is a non-assertive and non-cooperative approach. People who use this approach will not resolve the conflict completely. It is often applied to less important, routine issues or to more important issues that need to be resolved. Therefore, the cost of resolving the conflict is often higher than the amount of money allocated to resolve it.
4. Collaboration
This style is both assertive and cooperative, and is the opposite of the avoiding style. When collaborating, individuals often try to work with the other person to find a solution that both parties feel satisfied with. It is often used in situations where both parties have very important interests that need to be compromised.
5. Compromise
This is a middle way between assertiveness and cooperation. It lies between competition and cooperation. Therefore, this way is often applied when the goal is moderate and the key is to reach a quick solution.
Being a conflict mediator can be challenging and time-consuming. Being willing to step in when conflicts arise and help them reach a consensus will set the stage for the success of your business and the team you lead.
An unresolved conflict is like a festering boil on the surface and affects everyone around the conflicted employee. They will feel like they are walking on eggshells and this will contribute to a hostile work environment for everyone. In the worst case scenario, team members may start to form cliques and your team will be torn apart. That is why it is important for leaders to resolve conflict when it occurs – avoiding it is not the answer.
Human resources management
