Any disagreement between two parties or people is termed as conflict technically. Is it possible to avoid conflict? The answer is a big NO. Managers and leaders must expect conflict in the workplace, especially in a stressful work like the nursing, medical profession and many corporate bodies. There is no organization without conflict. Conflict arises because of unmet needs, misconception, miscommunication, misinterpretation, personality difference, abuse of power, different values and belief system, lack of clear protocol and policy regarding work, emotions and feelings. Many times people allow their emotions to precede reality and sound judgments. This leads to premature judgment and conclusion on issues that later escalates and become a wild bush fire retarding productivity and effectiveness at work.
The manager or the leader must be prepared to handle these issues with much tactfulness and wisdom in order to create a positive energy, environment and atmosphere for peace to thrive. Many leaders have caused a lot of harm than good in their attempt to resolve conflict. Conflict resolution skills are special tools the leader and manager needs to equip him/ herself with. The leaders must act without prejudice and taking sides. Which goes to suggest that, the leader must hear both sides carefully, be a mediator and not a judge, and be a facilitator and not a decider. Many employees and workers today have harboured bitterness, anger, resentfulness, negative energy because of poor management of conflict by their leaders and managers. The 21st century leadership and management demand a different approach and response to the handling of employee issues and challenges, hence the need for the manager and leader to build and develop capacity in order to match the ever arching and increasing demand on the nerves of leadership. Stay tune for more insights into leadership & Management
Rev. Jefferson Agbotro
Leadership & Management Consultant.