conflict management

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Definition: conflict management is a process in which conflicts between different parties are identified, addressed and resolved in a constructive and productive manner.

It encompasses various approaches including negotiation, Mediation, arbitration and the use of conflict resolution techniques.

Conflict management is an important skill for managers and ensures a healthy work environment.

Why conflict management?

Conflicts are a normal part of human interaction.

They can occur in the family, at work, at school or in other social groups.

However, conflicts can also have negative consequences, e.g. E.g.:

  • Disturbed communication: Conflicts can lead to impaired communication between the conflicting parties.
  • Loss of trust: Conflicts can damage the trust between the parties to the conflict.
  • Stress and load: Conflicts can cause stress and strain for those involved.
  • Bullying and violence: In some cases, conflict can lead to bullying or violence.

Conflict management can help to avoid these negative consequences and resolve conflicts constructively.

Objectives of conflict management:

The goals of conflict management are determined individually between the conflict parties and the conflict manager.

Common goals are:

  • Improve understanding: The conflicting parties should understand each other better and be able to perceive each other's perspectives.
  • Improve communication: Communication between the parties to the conflict should be improved so that they can speak to each other openly and constructively.
  • Find solution: The parties to the conflict should find a common solution that is acceptable to everyone.
  • Strengthen conflict management skills: The parties to the conflict should learn to manage conflicts more effectively in the future.

Types of conflict management:

There are different types of conflict management that can be used depending on the situation and the severity of the conflict.

  • Negotiation: The conflicting parties negotiate directly with each other to find a solution.
  • Mediation: A neutral mediator helps the conflicting parties communicate with each other and find a solution.
  • Arbitration: An arbitrator makes a binding decision for the parties to the conflict.
  • Conflict resolution techniques: There are various conflict resolution techniques, e.g. B. active listening, I-messages and de-escalation techniques.

Phases of conflict management:

Conflict management can be divided into different phases:

  1. Conflict identification: The conflicting parties recognize that there is a conflict.
  2. Conflict analysis: The parties to the conflict analyze the causes and course of the conflict.
  3. Conflict handling: The parties to the conflict deal with the conflict using an appropriate procedure.
  4. conflict resolution: The conflicting parties find a common solution.
  5. Postprocessing: The parties to the conflict reflect on the conflict and learn from their experiences.

Conflict management in the company:

Conflict management is particularly important in companies, as conflicts can lead to an impairment of productivity and the working atmosphere.

Companies can take various measures to prevent and resolve conflicts, such as: E.g.:

  • Conflict management training: Employees should learn to deal with conflicts constructively.
  • Creating an open communication culture: Employees should have the courage to express their opinions and address conflicts openly.
  • Establishment of a conflict management system: Companies should establish a procedure for dealing with conflicts.

Conflict management is an important skill that can be helpful in all areas of life.

By applying conflict management techniques, conflicts can be resolved constructively and negative consequences avoided.

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