Last month Minority Career News provided an assessment chart for you to use to evaluate the manner in which you handled conflict. We trust that the assessment exercise assisted you with improving the way you deal with conflicting situations. This month we will focus on: Providing a positive conflict resolution environment.
Many times we move full speed ahead into a conflicting situation without thinking. We can significantly increase the chances of success by avoiding a negative resolution environment. Ask these four questions before leaping into a disastrous situation:
1. Is this a good time to deal with this problem?
It is not good practice to deal with conflict when you feel angry, hurt or fatigued. Make sure everyone involved is emotionally and mentally ready to confront the issues. You must allow ample time to resolve the issue. If one or the other participants is on a tight schedule, set aside time to deal with the issue later.
2. Should a mediator be present?
Whether or not a third party should be present during conflict resolution depends on the sensitivity of the issue. Often times it is difficult to express your feelings honestly when someone other than the person that is directly involved is present. If both parities mutually agree, an objective third party could however, be beneficial. This person could help keep the discussion on track and defuse any emotional outbursts.
3. Is this the best place to discuss this problem?
Eliminating distractions such as - telephones, radios, or interruptions will assist in the resolution process. Providing a neutral territory is also a positive. This way no one has the advantage of being on their own turf.
4. What are the rules?
Participants should agree about when, where and how the discussions will take place. Decide if the discussion should be non-structured or if you would prefer to list the issues on paper and meet at a different time to discuss them. There are many methods that could be used to foster success. The key is that everyone involved agrees.
Next month, MCN will focus the Conflict Management Reader's Workshop on utilizing effective conflict resolution techniques.
John Jordan Jr.