“Conflict Management Strategies for Resolving the Inevitable”.ppt

“Conflict Management: Strategies for Resolving the Inevitable” Link Kathryn Towe Littleton Human Resources Chair, Central Area Oakland County (MI) Chapter Workshop Focus Getting on the same page regarding Conflict Management Understanding why it is “inevitable” Identifying the benefits and addressing the challenges Assessment Results from an HR Perspective Diversity in membership means different values, ideas, needs, and interests. Members often are not equipped to handle these differences. Differences ignored or not managed result in conflict. CONFLICT IS INEVITABLE What is Conflict? Any difference between people or groups of people which actually or seemingly offends the sensibilities or threatens the well-being of either party. Conflict always occurs within the boundaries of a relationship. Therefore, approval/self-worth, control, justice, and/or acceptance/love are most often the core issues. Challenges Distracts from goals Not efficient Reduces productivity and participation Low morale Benefits Improves organizational decision making Inspires members to articulate and clarify their ideas and positions Stimulates innovation, creativity and forward thinking Improves individual and group performance Scenario #1: IN THE COMMITTEE MEETING Committee Chair: I have taken the liberty to prepare a timeline and suggested activities for the project we are planning. Member # 1: Well, when I was Chair I made sure that all the Committee members and any other members that had ideas had a chance to submit them before we had finalized any plans. Scenario #1: IN THE COMMITTEE MEETING Committee Chair: This is not the final report but I thought having something on paper would serve as spring board for discussion and would generate more ideas. Member # 1: Well, when I was chair I would not have dreamed to suggest that the ladies of this organization could not generate ideas without a ‘cheat sheet’. Scenario #1: IN THE COMMITTEE MEETING Committee Chair: I realize that ea