Conflict Is Inevitable in the Workplace - Essay Example

Summary

The paper "Conflict Is Inevitable in the Workplace" discusses that there are many people from different backgrounds and orientations functioning together to get the work done. The diversity of individuals within a group is the catalyst for high growth, synergy of solutions, and a variety of ideas…

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Subject: Business
Type: Essay
Level: Masters
Pages: 1 (250 words)
Downloads: 4
Author: pansy71

Extract of sample "Conflict Is Inevitable in the Workplace"

It is important to resolve conflicts quickly and openly.

Several kinds of conflicts can be manifested in teams. There would be arguing and discussing issues that matter to the organization like cost cutting, making the workforce more productive, or how to counteract a competitor. These are essential discussions that would mostly be beneficial to the group or organization. These predispose good exchange of ideas and opinions that would most probably lead to workable, if not excellent solutions. These kinds of conflict are task-led and should be encouraged.

However, if teams display an open dislike for one another or are engaged in a ‘word war,’ then, this would be more of a destructive kind. The team would be experiencing an interpersonal conflict defined by animosity and heated exchanges. These conflicts would ultimately affect the whole team as it makes the atmosphere work tension-filled (Team Building, 2009).

As team leaders, managers are often in a position to handle conflicts within their team. It is therefore needed that the leader is strong and can take charge of the situation. He or she must have the strategies to allow the team to communicate effectively, create rapport, resolve conflict, and lead and motivate the whole team. He must also fully understand the diversity of the group by appreciating the various viewpoints, experiences, skills, and opinions.

Conflict should first be handled on an informal basis between the individuals involved. This will allow time for resolution or self-correction by the individuals. If the conflict remains unsettled, a mediator can be brought in to help resolve the situation. If resolution is still not achieved the dispute should be openly discussed in a team meeting. A formal disciplinary process needs to occur, if resolution is not achieved after being addressed at the team level (Rayeski & Bryant, 1994).

Conclusion

Individuals must be able to communicate their ideas, listen, and agree to disagree. It is a difficult environment with people having different opinions but this is the groundwork for most teams. Thus, teams must appreciate the diversity found within. Conflict can be managed within a group and hopefully, the team is prepared to respond in a manner that is beneficial and constructive. As differences in opinions are forerunners of innovation and growth of each individual and the team as a whole.

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