Conflict Management & Resolution

Conflict management and resolution needs to be a vital skill in any leader's tool bag. Often times many issues can be avoided as leaders seek to identify problems early and work toward respectful resolutions to meet the needs of all parties involved. As collaboration takes place to ensure all voices are heard and needs are met as much as possible, conflicts within professional environments can be kept to a minimum.

In my professional journey the primary barriers I've experienced in necessary communication boil down to one simple step...addressing the feelings and interests of others in validation of their positions. Good communication is not simple as we often experience negative thoughts and emotions simply by our own un-reactiveness to situations. Being willing to identify a problem or issue and discuss with others in a respectful and professional manner is a key first step. Many times, issues or problems go unaddressed leaving the parties to discuss with others who are not involved or let thoughts run rampant about what might take place. We can often alleviate many of the problems and issues before they begin by having a conversation about what we are thinking and feeling along with what needs we have that aren't being met.

Emotions can very easily run at high levels during conflicts and real issues might not be addressed to the satisfaction of all involved. When our emotions run high it is easy to become focused on what is causing our emotions and the solutions we have in mind to resolve our emotions to find a satisfactory resolution. Being personally aware of our emotions and what is causing them can help us take the first steps in seeking peace. Once we are in touch with our emotions and their causes, we can begin to step aside and consider the opposing views and how they will be impacted if everything goes our way. As we seek to consider others positions with an empathetic viewpoint, it will be easier to approach a difficult conversation with understanding.

Dealing with conflicts in a leadership role requires broad perspectives and empathy. As leaders of others we need to consistently consider all sides and the impacts of decisions we make. Keeping an open mind and a willingness to listen to all stakeholders will provide us with data necessary to make informed decisions. Setting up an open door policy to hear and discuss issues with other professionals allows us to support others and seek ways in which needs can be met by decisions affecting broad populations. Through this approach, we can model effective communication strategies and ensure we are addressing needs to keep conflicts at a minimum. At times, we may need to act as mediators and can do so effectively by addressing concerns and promoting affirmation of emotions and needs. As peoples needs and emotions are affirmed, walls come down and genuine resolutions will be achieved.