The Hindu Business Line : Managing conflict at work

Conflict is a natural disagreement resulting from individuals or groups that differ in attitudes, beliefs, values or needs. It can also originate from past rivalries and personality differences. Other causes of conflict include trying to negotiate before the timing is right or before needed information is available.

We need to understand the following:

Conflict is inevitable;

Conflict develops because we are dealing with people's lives, jobs, children, pride, self-concept, ego and sense of mission or purpose;

Early indicators of conflict can be recognised; and

Although inevitable, conflict can be minimised, diverted and/or resolved;

Conflict begins when there is: poor communication; seeking of power; dissatisfaction with management style;

weak leadership; lack of openness; and change in leadership.

First we need to look for conflict indicators. They include: body language; disagreements, regardless of issue; withholding important news; strong public statements by the other person; airing disagreements in public; desire for power; increasing lack of respect; open disagreement; and lack of clear goals.

First we must realise that all conflict is not bad. Conflict can be constructive and managed by:

Looking for and identifying the signs of beginning of the conflict.

Seeking to understand the perspective of the other person.

Doing your homework and preparing facts-based response.

Communicating your opinion in a transparent manner.

Being open to arriving at the best solution.

Sarvesh Gulati

Softspan (India) Pvt. Ltd, New Delhi

SoftSkillsSpeak@gmail.com

http://MentorQA.blogspot.com

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