Sharks and certain fish live in symbiosis with each other - meaning that although they are very different with the potential for conflict, they have developed a mutually beneficial relationship where they both win.
All of us experience conflict. We argue with our spouses, disagree with our friends, and sometimes even quarrel with strangers at a rugby game. At times we lose sight of the fact that all this conflict is normal. So long as people are individuals there will be the potential for conflict.
That’s the first thing to learn about conflict. It isn’t wrong or bad; it’s just part of being a person in contact with other people. The only people who don’t experience conflict are hermits.
Since you can’t prevent conflict, the most important thing is to learn how to handle or manage it in productive ways. What is critical for resolving conflict is developing an understanding of, and a trust in, shared goals. It requires openness, discipline, and creativity. Showing respect for other people and not blaming them enables people to work for mutual benefit.
There are no magical phrases or simple procedures for managing conflict. However, there are several strategies for coping with conflict. Knowing when and how to use these techniques can make you a more effective leader.
Course Outline:
Section 1: Introduction and Course Overview
Section 2: Defining Conflict
Section 3: Types of Conflict
Section 4: Open Conflict vs. Hidden Conflict
Section 5: Spontaneous and Reflective Action
Section 6: Johari Windows
Section 7: Stages of Conflict
- The Five Stages of Conflict
- Another Version of the Conflict Process
- Conflict Outcomes
- Strategies for Dealing with Conflict
Section 8: Win As Much as You Can
Section 9: Conflict Resolution Style Questionnaire
Section 10: The Role of Communication in Conflict Resolution
- The Communication Funnel
- Active Listening
- Paraphrasing
- Powerful Questions
- Body Language
Section 11: Seven Steps to Ironing Things Out
Section 12: The Conflict/Opportunity Test
Section 13: Conflict and its Resolution
- Visualising Conflict
- A Strategy for Conflict Resolution
Section 14: Facilitating Conflict
Section 15: Facilitation Overview
- Step One: Venting Emotions
- Step Two: Resolving the Issue
- Practical Application
Section 16: Setting Norms
Section 17: Making an Intervention
- Defining Interventions
- Resistance Scenarios