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Smart Conflict Resolution Techniques

Using effective conflict resolution techniques in the workplace is a skill that you need to possess if you want to be a true leader.
Stephen Rampur
"Peace cannot be kept by force. It can only be achieved by understanding." - Albert Einstein
Conflicts are common scenarios that we see at the workplace. There is no office where all employees are happy with each other. Therefore, conflict resolution is one of the most essential responsibilities for those in the leadership role.
If they are not addressed on a priority basis, they can have an extremely negative effect on the work environment and impact employee productivity. For handling such matters, a manager should have the necessary leadership skills, problem-solving abilities, empathy, and decision-making capabilities. 

Listen and Then Speak Out

This is a very important quality that a leader must display before taking any step or action. He should be able to listen to all parties without any bias and understand the nature of differences among them.
It's only then that he is in a position to take a rational decision. If he says something inappropriate without clearly interpreting the situation, it may make the matter even worse and let down his subordinates.

Have a Group Meeting

A leader should arrange for a meeting to discuss the chain of events that occurred, by inviting all concerned parties. In the meeting, he should provide everyone a fair chance to speak out their views.
This is a good method of understanding what actually was the reason for the conflict and how it could have been avoided. Having a group meeting is also a suitable forum for clearing any misunderstanding between those involved in the dispute.

Communicate in Person

Along with discussing the issue in a group, and understanding and noting down everyone's views, the manager should also communicate in person with those involved in the conflict. In this manner, he as a leader can counsel the individuals about the adverse effects, if it is not resolved amicably and as soon as possible.

Do not be Partial

A leader should make sure that he is not partial or biased to any particular individual. Favoritism leads to mistrust among the employees, and there is no way that the right decision will be reached, which is a win-win for all parties.

Do not Postpone

Postponing the issue will only worsen the situation further and negatively impact the work environment. A leader should address such matters on topmost priority.
It becomes unmanageable if the conflict has been in the air for a while, and then it is addressed. On the other hand, one should not come to a wrong decision, just to solve the problem as soon as possible.

Provide Examples of Teamwork

One of the most effective techniques is to motivate the employees about what they are there for. A leader needs to present examples of successful projects when all members worked as a team. 
This will really make the employees think about the importance of teamwork. And this may finally make the conflict fade away.
When handling conflicts, one also should consider the policies and procedures of the organization. Whatever decision one takes, it must be handled with a truly professional attitude and should help to harmonize relations among employees.