Conflict Resolution Strategies

Introduction to Conflict Resolution Strategies

In order to be able to clearly discuss conflict resolution strategies it is first necessary to explain a little about teams and team works; define what conflict is and how it can arise when working within a team environment; and most importantly suggest some strategies to resolve conflict.

The easiest way of explaining what a team is, is as follows: a co-operative group of people working together to attain a common goal or set of goals; "a number of persons associated together in work or activity" (Websters, 2006) which on its own can be problematic, as each person brings his or her own skill set into the group; there may be members that have language / speech barriers; may be members that do not pull their weight and meet targets set. All of which can lead to conflict within a team environment.

The biggest common feature of a team has to be that of communication. It is one of the few ways to become a team and to have a better understanding of each other; with common objectives and goals. It should define what should and should not be done by all members of a team. Without effective communication conflict may and does arise within the team.

So what is conflict? After researching many different legal definitions this is the authors' interpretation of the word conflict taken from Web Site titled Managing Organizational Discord to Your Welfare. "Conflict is usually based upon a difference over goals, objectives, or expectations between individuals or groups" (2005, JimTrade.com)

Conflict Resolution Strategies: Conflict and causes of

Conflict arises from differences and is inevitable in the team environment. One major advantage a team has over an individual is the variety of skills and knowledge each person brings into a team, however diversity of this nature can cause conflict.

However, not all conflict should be considered negative and harmful to a team. Conflict can be very encouraging. It is a way that new ideas can be brought to the table and discussed. It can lead to a coming together of the team as the new ideas are discussed.

In theory, conflict, like water and fire, is neither good nor bad. Unlike water or fire, However, conflict is not something that can be directly touched, weighed or seen - it lies in the minds of the people who are in conflict. The results of conflict can be seen, however, when it shows itself in arguing, brooding, or fighting (Capozzoli, 1995)

There are several common causes of conflict within teams not only is their conflict between individuals, there is also conflict within the organization. A few examples of organizational conflict taken from the Web Site ETU.org (2006) are" lack of resources; disagreements about needs; goals, priorities and interests; poor communication; lack of clarity of roles within the team."

According to the ETU Web Site there are several examples of individual conflict:

People have differing styles of communication, ambitions, political or religious views and different cultural backgrounds. In our diverse society, the possibility of these differences leading to conflict between individuals is always there, and we must be alert to preventing and resolving situations where conflict arises (ETU.org, 2006)

It cannot be expected that when creating a team that the individuals coming together as a team will be a bed of roses. It takes time and understanding of everyone involved. There are several different ways of handling conflict once it has arisen - though the easiest way is to try and prevent it from occurring in the beginning. There is an old adage "prevention is better than the cure" , and maybe one that should be kept in mind when looking at team dynamics.

Conflict Resolution strategies: Handling Conflict

There are a variety of ways to resolve conflict within a team or between team members. It can be very difficult when there is no clarity between roles. I truly believe that people need that clarity and guideline to be able to function within the team.

According to Capozzoli