This is my very first blog and my topic of discussion is conflict management. I have selected this topic as conflict is something we all deal with on a regular basis. My goal is to express the many ways conflict can be handled and I encourage everyone to share their ideas on how they constructively use conflict as a catalyst for change.
Conflicts are a natural part of all relationships, personal and professional. We deal with conflict every day. The outcome of conflicts are based on the way it is handled by the individuals involved. Positive solutions to conflict create a more constructive and productive atmosphere. Negative reactions create a deconstructive and stressful atmosphere. Conflict can create the opportunity for enhanced relationships, improved effectiveness and increased productivity in the workplace if handled correctly.
There are a number of reasons conflict may arise in the workplace. Stress, miscommunication, ego, breech of trust, values and previously unresolved issues are only but a few. The four most common ways that people respond to conflict are; avoidance, collaboration and compromise, accommodation, and competition. These four common ways of dealing with conflict will be discussed later in more detail. Input from readers is encouraged as we could all use some help on how to deal with conflict better.
