As an enterprise leader, conflicts are an unfortunate (and inescapable) part of life. Due to the vastly varied views and opinions of people, it’s inevitable that conflicts will occur periodically for you to manage. But the idea is not to avoid them; instead, you want to resolve them through effective communication. This essential skill can be learned and developed via conflict resolution training. At Negotiations Ninja, we are a team of persuasion, influence, and negotiation experts.
Moreover, we offer conflict resolution training online and in person to help you navigate your workplace disputes. This post covers a few simple strategies to help ease organizational tension within your company – keep reading to learn more.
1. Pinpoint the Conflict’s Source
Specifying the root of the conflict allows you to determine how the issue grew; this simple process can help prevent similar issues from reoccurring. Additionally, you can get both parties in agreement regarding the cause of the dispute. In a small way, this fosters mutual understanding. Ensure you gather as many details as possible from each side. Ask questions until you are sure everyone is unanimous in their understanding of the problem.
2. Practice Active Listening
Allow each party to air their views, frustrations, etc., regarding the conflict in question. Listen carefully and give them time to express their thoughts without playing favorites. Ensure you remain positive yet assertive. Set ground rules if you believe it’s necessary. This approach gives them “psychological air” to vent before determining the most appropriate way to move forward.
3. Analyze the Problem
After listening, take time to analyze the issue. Don’t prejudge or rush to any conclusions. Dig deeper to uncover what happened, who did what, and why it transpired. You can do this by:
- Separating facts from opinions
- Reviewing workplace policies regarding such disputes
- Gathering as much information as possible to see where things went wrong
- Discussing the issue in-depth with those involved
- Strategizing a solution
4. Determine the Resolution
You need to put things into perspective for your team. Respectfully remind them that workplace squabbles hinder progress toward company goals; employees will realize it’s easier to interact with each other once they remember this fact. So, once you’ve thoroughly analyzed the problem and actively listened to both sides, it’s time to lay down a resolution for the company’s betterment.
5. Consider Preventative Strategies
Decide on preventative strategies should such conflicts reoccur. Find the lessons you can take away from this issue; note what worked, what didn’t, and why. This simple act can save you time and frustration if the same (or a similar) problem resurfaces in the future. Why? You’ll have developed a procedure for how to handle it effectively.
Next Step: Upgrade Your Conflict Resolution Knowledge
Conflict will always be a part of our lives; many people find themselves in the middle of it. However, as a leader of an organization, you are responsible for helping to resolve it (rather than getting caught up in it). And the only way to do that is through education. At Negotiations Ninja, we offer conflict resolution training courses for workplace disputes. So if you’re ready for a streamlined resolution to conflict, and the resulting cohesive work environment, contact us today to learn more.