How Negotiation and Conflict Resolution Strategies Work Together

Conflict can be a common part of many workplaces. While conflict can encourage change and inspire new ideas and processes, it is equally important to know how to negotiate during conflicts. Negotiation and conflict resolution skills allow you to reach a reasonable outcome among all parties. In this post, you are introduced to what conflict negotiation is, the techniques for conflict resolution, and why negotiation and conflict resolution are important.

Dispute resolution is a process that is best approached by using conflict resolution and negotiation techniques. Conflict resolution techniques attempt to reconcile the differences, violations, or incompatibilities that occurred with a resolution allowing all parties involved to move forward towards a common goal.

But how does negotiation relate to conflict resolution?

Negotiation involves resolving disputes or differences and reaching an agreement between two or more parties. This appears very similar to a wider concept of conflict resolution. However, the two concepts exist separately. One may impact the other during any given dispute and at any time.

For example, if a party experiences conflict during the negotiation process, the party may seek conflict resolution so negotiations can continue.

Similarly, two or more parties experiencing conflicts may also find that the primary conflict is a dispute that might have a resolution via negotiations.

What are the potential sources of conflict during a negotiation?

It is common to experience conflict in the midst of negotiating an agreement. Two parties involved in the process often have different perceptions, goals, and outlooks, which may prove to be a source of conflict. Sometimes situations may pop up during the negotiation process that effectively stall even the most well-meant conflict resolution and negotiation strategies.


 

Common sources of conflict during negotiation include:

  • The difference in core beliefs
  • Difference in goals
  • The difference in personality styles
  • Lack of resources
  • Differences in status, expertise, power, and influence
  • Misunderstanding
  • Confusion taking responsibilities

How can you employ conflict resolution during a negotiation?

  • Address the conflict, not the person   
  • It is always wise to address the issue first instead of another negotiator’s personality.


  • Engage in active listening

Active listening will result in a deeper understanding of the issue and the other negotiator’s needs, which will likely enhance mutual trust.


  • Find shared interests

Before beginning to negotiate, it is always advisable to try and identify the other negotiators’ needs and find common ground. This may very well lead to a win-win situation.


  • Set an objective
    It is critical to developing an objective to work toward resolving conflict. Having a clear objective that requires give and take is a key element to a successful negotiation.


  • Determine the best alternative for negotiating an agreement
    Entering a discussion with the best alternatives in mind will provide an opportunity to minimize conflict and foster compromise. Know when to walk away. 


Yes, conflict can certainly stall negotiations, but in the end, the agreement remains within reach with the implementation of negotiation and conflict resolution strategies. Approaching negotiation and conflict resolution as part of a process allows both to work together, providing you tools to enhance the probability of success.

If conflict is hampering your result, ‘The Collaboration Effect’ by Michael Gregory can help. This text will give you confidence when sailing through difficult situations, allow you to focus on the tasks at hand, and help you gain peace in both your personal and professional relationships.

Order the book today!

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Career in Conflict Resolution Mediation - Few Things to Know

Image
Do you want to pursue a career as a conflict resolution mediator? Want to know what are the eligibility criteria and other aspects of becoming a successful conflict resolution mediator? Then check the post below: Educational Requirements for becoming a conflict resolution mediator Each state has its own rules. Some states have no requirements. Others require a specific amount and type of training, to pass a test, to have so many hours of mediation experience, and an annual required minimum amount of continual professional education.  Some states require a minimum level of education. However, the job specialties in conflict resolution generally require at least a Bachelor's degree. Certain universities like George Mason University in Virginia, American University in D.C. offer specific degrees in Mediation and Conflict Resolution.   You can also join one of the professional organizations that specialize in providing the classes on Mediation and Conflict Resolution such as the Associ
Read more

Top Strategies to Resolve Conflicts at Workplace

Image
Conflicts in workplaces often occur due to differences in opinions and perceptions where conversations turn into arguments and in certain situations it can become deep-rooted. When the aggressiveness of workplace conflicts is not addressed or ignored, then the conflict might cause negative impacts and result in less professional interactions and affect the overall productivity of the organization. Although every individual has his unique opinion and viewpoint, when working together as a team collaboration requires listening, understanding, and compromise. However, at times these compromises convert into disagreements. When the situations get out of hand, it becomes the responsibility of the manager to find ways to help participants resolve the conflicts within their team. Conflict resolution can be conducted via one-to-one meetings, team meetings and even HR intervention may be required. If you too are looking for conflict resolution strategies, then read on the post below. For an o
Read more

Strategic Conflict Resolution in the Workplace

Image
Michael Gregory Consulting, LLC offers expert guidance in resolving workplace conflicts effectively through mediation. Discover practical approaches to handling disputes, from setting ground rules to achieving closure, ensuring a positive and collaborative work environment. With the assistance of a qualified mediator like Michael Gregory, navigate conflicts with confidence. Contact us at mg@mikegreg.com or call (651) 633-5311 for assistance. In the dynamic environment of any workplace, conflicts are bound to arise. Differences in perspectives, misunderstandings, and clashes in temperaments can lead to miscommunications and hinder productivity. As a responsible manager, it's crucial to address these conflicts promptly and effectively to maintain a harmonious work environment. Here are practical approaches to handling workplace conflicts with mediation: Set Specific Ground Rules: To facilitate effective conflict resolution through mediation, establish clear ground rules. Determin
Read more