by One of the most important factors in resolving conflicts effectively is open communication between all parties involved. When conflicts arise, it is natural for misunderstandings or hurt feelings to occur as well. Making an effort to communicate openly and honestly about what transpired and how each person feels can help to clear the air and get a dialogue started. Both parties should feel heard and have a chance to share their perspective in a respectful manner. Active listening is also important so each side can try to understand where the other is coming from even if they may not agree. With open communication, conflicts that may have seemed intractable can often be worked through productively.
Conflict Resolution Solutions Find Common Ground
Once initial communication has happened, the next step is to try and find common ground or interests both sides share. Even if the perspectives initially seem opposed, digging deeper usually reveals some shared goals, values or concerns. Finding these points of agreement provides a platform to build from in working towards resolution. It also helps shift the discussion from a “win-lose” to a “win-win” mentality where satisfying both sides’ interests becomes the priority over being “right.” Discover areas of commonality to help make progress addressing the underlying issues fueling the Conflict Resolution Solutions.
Separate People from the Problem
In tense conflicts, it is easy for strong emotions to take over and for things to become personalized. People can feel attacks are being made on them rather than on the issues themselves. Mediators recommend separating people from the problem being discussed which allows for a more objective discussion of the real issues at hand versus personal conflict between individuals. Avoid assigning blame or attacks and instead focus discussions on behavior, facts and potential solutions. This keeps airing of grievances from spiraling into unproductive territory.
Compromise When Needed
Not all conflicts have a definitively right answer, so being open to compromise is another key strategy when seeking resolution. Both parties need to be willing to consider concessions or settlement somewhere in the middle of the initial positions. Conflicts resolved through cooperation where each side voluntarily limits demands in order to find a mutually acceptable solution tend to result in stronger, longer-lasting agreements versus those forcefully imposed. Be open to creative solutions that split differences rather than one party wholly capitulating to demands of the other.
Conflict Resolution Solutions Consider Mediation
For particularly complex or entrenched Conflict Resolution Solutions, considering mediation by a neutral third party can sometimes help. Mediators are trained in conflict resolution techniques and bring no preexisting biases to the issues being discussed. They can help facilitate productive discussion when direct communication between conflicted parties has broken down. Mediators assist identifying common interests, keeping discussions respectful and moving toward agreed upon solutions. While not always necessary, mediation provides an objective avenue to work through conflicts when challenges internally resolving issues become barriers to progress.
Implement Solutions and Follow Up
Once resolution is reached through any of these recommended methods, following through on implementation is key. Ensure agreements are put into practice and that proper follow up occurs to confirm new understanding or compromises are functioning smoothly.
Periodically checking in after a conflict is also advised in case any new issues emerge that require further attention. Addressing conflicts constructively through open communication, finding shared interests, keeping discussions objective and considering the options of compromise or mediation when needed leads to healthier, more productive and cooperative work environments over the long term.
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
