Conflict invariably occurs at some point when two or more people must work together to make decisions. Whether you are having problems with your spouse or a coworker, your response to conflict is crucial to continuing a productive relationship with that person. Angry responses can quickly derail conflict resolution and cause feelings of resentment that may persist for years. Learning conflict resolution skills can help you handle conflict without becoming overly emotional, defensive or angry.
Step 1
Take a break when strong emotions begin to surface. Agree to revisit the issue several hours later when everyone is calmer.
Step 2
Discuss the points that everyone agrees are important when you meet again. Perhaps you can all agree you are committed to the smooth running of a new marketing plan, but have differing ideas of how the plan should be implemented.
Step 3
Ask everyone to present his or her point of view regarding the conflict, and take suggestions on how to get over it. Don't allow any interruptions during this phase. Set a five- or 10-minute time limit if you are afraid that some people might ramble.
Step 4
Use a whiteboard of piece of paper to keep track of everyone's suggestions, which will lead to the group eventually agreeing on a common goal. AllBusiness.com recommends considering how a specific action will affect other objectives and projects and if the result will be worth the time and energy spent.
Step 5
Decide on a compromise. If you and your spouse are arguing about vacation plans, perhaps each spouse can choose a destination in alternate years or you can take two smaller vacations rather than one large vacation.
Step 6
Abide by the decision of your supervisor or committee if a compromise cannot be found by working together with your coworkers. Realize that you can't win every conflict and gracefully accept the solution.
Tips and Warnings
- Identify areas most likely to cause conflict and address them before a conflict can occur. If you know your spouse doesn't like to spend money unnecessarily but the children have undergone a growth spurt and need new clothing, discuss the matter with your spouse before you plan a shopping trip. Be willing to see things from the other person's point of view. The other person may have completely different responsibilities and concerns than you do. Understanding these concerns can help you devise a solution that will address everyone's concerns. Discuss your personal or professional goals with your spouse or coworkers to ensure that everyone is working toward the same goal. Conflict is more likely to occur if you have different goals and expectations.
- Nothing can derail conflict resolution faster than a bad attitude. Avoid rolling your eyes, sighing or making facial expressions that indicate contempt for the person speaking or his ideas.
Things You'll Need
- Whiteboard or paper
- Markers or pens
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