Sub Blog 2
- Webster defines conflict as follows: discord, disharmony, friction, antagonism, territorialism, rivalry, disagreement, dissonance, disunity. The Thesaurus offers this: clash, battle, difference, and similar equally unpleasant synonyms. However you describe it, conflict between two people is must be handled properly or it can lead to unproductive consequences-anxiety, anger, intimidation, lack of teamwork, blame, resentment, morale problems and decreased productivity. It can get downright ugly.
- The good news is, most often conflict can be resolved. Addressing and resolving conflict situations between yourself and another individual is a healthy way to bring important issues to light and if handled properly, can strengthen relationships. This issue of MMM is to motivate you to resolve conflict between yourself and someone else on your team.
- Here are a few things to keep in mind: It must be done in privacy.Be sure to approach the person with an open mind and heart and state your position in a soft-spoken manner. ("Joe, let's face it. You and I butt heads constantly." "Susan, when someone is constantly complaining about the heavy workload it doesn't help anyone on a team. We're all working hard. It can pull everyone down.")
- Then, solicit feedback and ask how you can help, or what you can do to get along with the person."What can I do to help us get along?" "Can I do anything to help you?" Listen, put yourself in the other person's position. Ask for cooperation. Don't demand it. How about if we agree to..." "Can we agree to at least meet each other half-way?" Then, finish in a friendly fashion. "Thanks for having this talk."
- Don't ignore conflict. It won't go away. It will fester. To learn more on this topic plus how to influence others in a positive way, register for my upcoming webinar sponsored by AED -
- Article thanks to Christine Speaks.
