Conflict Resolution

Any group that is engaged in important work will encounter conflict.  Conflict is inevitable because people have different personalities, data, beliefs, experiences and viewpoints.  Conflict is a natural phenomenon because team members see the needs of the organization differently or because they have different responsibilities and interests to represent.  However, conflict can accelerate out of control when people feel threatened, when they feel blocked from getting what they want, or when they face a risk of losing what they have gained.

The goal of a conflict resolution process is to solve problems and find common ground among opposing perspectives.  Conflict resolution involves recognizing a conflict early on, identifying the implications of the conflict, diagnosing the source, and following through with a plan of action.

When Does Conflict Require Assistance?
The Conflict Resolution process often requires outside support when no common ground can be found among parties, when people become distracted from their responsibilities, and the conflict begins to hinder productivity and undermine the moral of the organization.  If conflict is not managed or channeled properly it can threaten the well being of individuals, cross functional departments, senior leadership, and the entire organization. 

WHY UNRESOLVED CONFLICT IS DESTRUCTIVE

1. It drains energy and attention from important tasks, productivity, safety, quality, and/or teamwork
2. It destroys the self-esteem and motivation of others
3. It polarizes individuals and creates sub groups and cliques
4. It leads to emotional and personal attacks that create “baggage”
5. It results in unproductive competitiveness, frustration and anger that gets vented

WHY CONFLICT IS CONSTRUCTIVE
Conflict doesn’t have to be a bad thing.  When people have the right skills and processes, conflict can be healthy and can be used to produce creative solutions and enhance team effectiveness.

1. It opens up important issues
2. It leads to greater clarification and understanding between people
3. It produces innovative solutions
4. It enables people to learn and expand their perspective
5. It encourages meaningful dialogue and communication
6. It leads to cooperation and greater unity between people or groups

CMOE is a world leader in the area of Conflict Resolution, Communication Skills, and Team Development.  For the past 30 years we have assisted individuals, intact teams, and senior leadership team manage differences and harness conflict.  With extensive background and research around team development and conflict, we are able to provide interventions and solutions that are unmatched in the industry.  We invite you to learn more about Conflict Resolution with one of our Senior Consultants who are available to discuss resolving conflict in your organization.  Call 888-262-2499 or email info@cmoe.com