5 Styles of Conflict Resolution
To help you choose individuals best suited to represent the association, let's
examine the five ways people handle conflict, from the least to the most effective:
The most successful outcome will be achieved if those involved can address the conflict
with a cooperative approach. In order to understand what a "win" is for each party, it's
important to engage in conversation and actively listen to understand what everyone's
individual interests are. Remember, the goal of actively listening is simply to understand
the needs and interests of the parties. An important component of active listening is to
recognize that understanding is not agreeing.
Competing
This person puts his or her interests before anyone else's
interests. The goal is to win.
Compromising
This person finds it important to satisfy some of their interests,
but not all of them. The goal is to find a middle ground.
Avoiding
This person will choose not to get involved in a conflict. The
goal is to delay.
Accommodating
This person puts their interests last and let others have what
they want. The goal is to yield.
Cooperative
This person will try to find a solution that will help everyone
meet their interests and help everyone maintain a good
relationship. The goal is a win-win solution.
