Conflict is a normal result of a lot of different people with different ideas working together. Though it doesn’t always feel good initially, conflict can eventually lead to more group cohesion and success if everyone takes time to listen to each other and works toward problem solving.
One of the most effective ways to resolve conflict is through collaboration - working together to find a solution that satisfies everyone’s concerns. When you collaborate, everyone wins: People feel good about what took place and therefore mutual respect is enhanced.
Using a Collaborative Approach to Conflict Resolution
- Diagnose the problem. It is important to gain a clear understanding of the conflict. Is it philosophical, personal, cultural? Is it about different expectations that people have of each other? To determine the problem, it is important to listen to what everyone is saying.
- Initiate a discussion. Bring the conflicting parties together and state the problem simply and non-defensively. Remind everyone to listen to and respect each other and try to “respond” rather than “react”. Paraphrase what others are saying in order to be sure everyone is being understood.
- Problem solve. As a group, generate as many solutions to the conflict as you can. Make sure everyone understands that this is just brainstorming, there is no good or bad answer. When there are no more ideas, it’s time to discuss your list. Let everyone have a say, but take care to direct the conversation. Avoid allowing people to coerce others in the group into agreeing with them. Reach a consensus and implement the solution. This may include assigning people to tasks.
- Evaluation. It’s important to follow-up a little bit later to see how the solution is working for the group. Evaluate the problem-solving process that was used so that you are prepared to address future conflicts.
Negotiating conflict is a difficult process to navigate with any group and you may face some stumbling block as you go through the steps above. But remember, be persistent and acknowledge to yourself and the group that conflict is a normal part of working in a group. Don’t forget to ask for help from your advisor or a Student Leadership and Involvement staff member if you need assistance.