Prevent Team Conflict
If you’re a manager, team conflict is probably one of your biggest nightmares.
After all, conflict can lead to decreased productivity, low morale, and even turnover.
While conflict is inevitable, there are ways to prevent some conflict and minimize any negative impacts. First, we need to recognize that conflict – or different desires or points of views – can be very helpful when expressed professionally.
One way to prevent a major conflict is to make sure the team is aligned around the goals, roles and responsibilities, and methods. If you think a lack of alignment is the root cause of your team’s conflict click here for ideas to resolve alignment issues.
Next, encourage communication because it is the key to preventing and solving team conflicts. By encouraging open communication and dialogue on a day-to-day basis, you can create an environment where team members feel comfortable expressing their opinions and ideas. This will help to solve problems and prevent conflicts from escalating. If your team is uncomfortable being candid with each other, use this team exercise to begin encouraging them to talk and build trust.
Finally, create an outlet for the team to candidly share opinions and offer different perspectives. Encouraging and embracing differences can be modeled and rewarded. For example, support a healthy debate and discussion, acknowledging team members who are open to new ideas, and willing to compromise, or collaborate.
Would you like some training and practical tools to manage conflict within your team?
If yes, sign up for the Better Teams Leadership Track 1: Navigating Team Challenges and ready yourself to confidently and swiftly resolve conflict on your team.
Summary
Alignment, open communication, and creating outlets all allow teams to express different points of views and work towards resolution without escalating into unhealthy and damaging conflict.
About the Author: Leigh Ann Rodgers, Founder of Better Teams, Team Consultant Academy, and FORWARD, is an IAF Certified Professional Facilitator with 20 years of experience in the human development field. Leigh Ann is a skilled meeting facilitator, trainer, and coach working across the globe to help leaders cultivate teams that are happy and high-performing.
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