Dealing with Conflict in Teams

It is assumed there will be some sort of conflict throughout a team assignment, whether its big or small. However, the reason teams are effective is because they get through conflict without a hitch. In this blog I will discuss with you six steps to help you deal with conflict. 

     1. Listen: Be sure to understand the problem. Make sure you are listening and that your aware of what needs to be fixed. Also make sure they are attentive of what you say as well.
     2. Understand the others point of view: After listening to what the member needed to be said, it will be easier to see where they are coming from. Put yourself in their shoes. Show understanding by asking questions and paraphrasing what they say to make sure they know that you see where they are coming from. Use Empathy. 
     3. Show a concern for the relationship: Focus on the problem and not the person.  Show understanding and willingness to fix the problem. Try to come to an agreement.
     4. Look for common ground: Identify interests you may have and what their interests are as well. See what you have in common and see if you can find a solution you both agree with.
     5. Invent new problem-solving options: Spend time identifying the interests of both sides. Try to find new ways to resolve the problem. Be open to new options
     6. Reach an agreement on whats fair: Determine a standard of fairness that is accepted by both sides.  Weigh the possible decisions and choose the one that best fits. 

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Below is a clip from "The Big Bang Theory". The clip demonstrates conflict between Leonard and Sheldon, but Leonard avoids trying to fix things or empathize how Sheldon feels. Instead of resolving the problem it only gets worse.