Conflict Management Strategies and Techniques

In any situation involving more than one person, conflict can arise. The causes of conflict range from philosophical differences and divergent goals to power imbalances. Unmanaged or poorly managed conflicts generate a breakdown in trust and lost productivity. For small businesses, where success often hinges on the cohesion of a few people, loss of trust and productivity can signal the death of the business.

1)Start a Discussion
Often, conflict arises simply due to a lack of communication. If you feel that your employees are having conflict because they are not talking with each other, set up a time for a discussion. Encourage the employees to talk through the problem, particularly if you suspect that it simply stems from the fact that they have failed to communicate effectively up to this point.

2)Choose Words Wisely With Written Communication
If an issue has escalated or one of the employees has a hot temper, written communication may be a more effective way of breaking down the wall and resolving conflict. Ask each employee to write a letter to the other, outlining the problem. By writing letters instead of talking face to face they benefit from the opportunity to more carefully select their words. They can also make sure that the exchange doesn’t erupt into a yelling match. Additionally, letter writing provides a means to document this communication easily.

3)Mediation Through a Third Party
Sometimes, two individuals in a conflict simply can’t work it out together without the aid of the third party. If your workers’ conflict has escalated to the point where outside intervention is necessary, set up a mediation session. Train a staff member in the art of meditation. Allow this staffer to sit down with the feuding individuals and assist them in working through their problems in a productive manner.

4)Work on a Compromise
Ask each person to give a little and take a little by arranging a compromise between the two. Ask both of the members to come to your offer and talk the problem through with them, presenting potential compromises and allowing them to mull these options over. By arranging a compromise instead of just selecting one member’s interests over the other, you can reduce the likelihood that one staff member feels slighted by the way in which the conflict was resolved.

5)Put It to a Vote
If you simply must put the conflict to bed, voting can be an effective method. If, for example, two employees are arguing over a potential advertising campaign or other business endeavors, set up a vote, and allow other employees to weigh in. The numbers will solve the conflict and serve as a once-and-for-all answer.