Conflict exists in every organization.
Why? Because the potential for discord is “baked” into the fabric of organizations — lots of people with different interests, needs, and approaches; each wanting attention, time, financial resources, and power — resources that inevitably are limited. Successful leaders know how to deal with conflict effectively and to be successful, leaders at all levels need to be able to answer this question:
What types of conflict require what style of conflict resolution?
While how we approach conflict is often unique to the situation and the people involved, the five modes of conflict presented in the Thomas/Kilmann model dealing with conflict resolution can be helpful . For those of you familiar with the model, you may remember the five styles (competing, accommodating, avoiding, collaborating, and compromising). Here’s an quick overview:
Mode
Conflict Approach
Key Words
While we all have preferences, the most important point about conflict is this: there are times when EACH style works better than the others. And knowing when that is, creates growth opportunities for you.
Conflict Situation
Suggested Conflict Style
Additional Insights . . .
Video
- Here are more than a few videos on workplace conflict. Our suggestion — choose the one that hits you as relevant and take a look. It is likely you will find something special in it that is “just what you need to hear.”
Workplace Conflict - But if you are skeptical of that approach, we want to suggest one we think is a can’t miss for most leaders. One of the world’s experts on conflict talks about conflict resolution — it’s a must see.
The walk from “no” to “yes”
Additional Reading
- You’ll find everything to say right here. Use it and share.
Perfect Phrases for Conflict Resolution