Conflict management approach
So how do we deal with conflict when it happens? The following process will highlight how to deal with it when it arises:
Aknowledge conflict - make sure people understand that the conflict may be a mutual problem, which may be resolved through discussion and negotiation rather than raw aggression.
Gather information – understand the underlying needs and concerns, ask for others viewpoints and confirm you respect their opinion and need their cooperation to solve the problem. Understand their motivations and goals.
Agree the problem – you will need to agree the problem you are trying to solve before you’ll find a mutually acceptable solution. Be open to the fact that both parties will need to be open to giving ground and changing position.
Discuss possible solutions – discuss the options available and be open to all ideas, including ones you’ve never considered before.
Agree, action and record – by taking time to go through each stage of the process, the conflict may be partially or fully resolved. Both sides may better understand the position of the other and a mutually satisfactory solution may be clear. However, you may also have uncovered real differences between your positions. If so as a manager, you must invest further time in dealing with the situation and finding a solution that to some extent satisfies everyone and allows the team to move forward.