Conflict Resolution / Team Dynamics

Conflict Resolution / Team Dynamics

Modern management practice emphasizes the need for effective conflict resolution practices and conflict management . The task for managers is therefore not just to resolve or suppress all conflict , but to manage it so as to reduce its harmful effects and benefit from its good effects The problem solving skills is a conflict resolution technique which helps to reduce conflict situations and find the best solution that satisfies the needs of everyone involved . Thesis : Conflict Resolution can be de-escalated through problem solving , communication , negotiation mediation and finally infusion

and implementation

Communication to De-Escalate Conflict

a ) Communication is the most important process which helps employees to exchange information and ideas regarding current problems . If there is good communication between all team members , any conflict can be managed within the team with minimal disruption . If the project team are involved and can contribute to the way they work they are more likely to develop into an effective team (LaFasto , Larsen , 2001 . Communication process is based on four main stages : 1 ) message is sent (2 ) message is received (3 ) feedback , and (4 ) another message is sent (Armstrong 2001 . In teams , this process is more complex because there are several receivers of the message and several feedbacks . In this situation conflict resolution can be de-escalated through effective communication between team members which helps to overcome negative emotions and misunderstanding (Stacey , 1996

b ) The main problem faced by teams in conflict resolution is misunderstanding . Clearly if the parties can agree on mutual objectives then the problem is far easier to resolve than if they have conflicting objectless and personal agendas . By keeping the objectives in mind and always looking for ways in which both parties can work together to achieve their common objectives , it should be easier to reach a mutually acceptable compromise . One very simple approach of achieving this is to consider a position taken by the other party and ask why they would want something and why they would not want to agree to propositions . By applying this simple approach to a list of points associated with the issue a speedy resolution can be achieved (Gleason , 1997 . If the group or team lacks understanding , the decision-making will fail to fulfill its aim . Each member of the team contributes something different , but they must all contribute towards a common goal

c ) Listening practices is one of the most important principles of communication and conflict resolution . Listening practices imply mutual respect and confidence needed for successful conflict resolution Subjects to be discussed should be clearly stated . For instance , if members of the team are not open and attentive , they fail to perform effectively and solve current problems . Their efforts must all pull in the same direction , and their contributions must fit together to produce a whole - without gaps , without friction , without unnecessary duplication of effort (Goris , et al 2000

Solving Conflicts

a ) The sources of organizational conflict have a great influence on problem solving skills and can be applied to conflict between...