What are some of the core values, behaviors, traits, and ...



Preventing Conflict

David L. Ruffin

Southwestern College

LDR515

Dr. James Morrison

February 7, 2013

Conflict is a process that starts when one party perceives that another party has negatively affected or is about to negatively affect something that the first party is concerned about (Robbins & Judge, 2010, p. 194). It is naturally occurring and can affect all of our human relationships, both personal and work related. Despite this, there are some things that we can do to try to prevent conflict from occurring. These things come in the forms of values, behaviors, traits, and characteristics.

Two characteristics which can help prevent conflict is effective communication, which includes active listening; and perceptions. We spend approximately 75% of our day involved in communication. Basic communication skills take on many faces and include oral communication, reading, writing, and listening. At our workplaces, many employers have figured out that good listening skills result in fewer misunderstandings, and more pleasant and productive work environments ( Fritz, Brown, Lunde & Banset, 2005). Misunderstandings from poor communication skills can lead to conflict. Perception is an attitude or understanding of something that is based on what a person observes or thinks. Conflict often occurs because one person perceives that another person’s position on something is unreasonable (Griffith & Goodwin, 2013). While we don’t necessarily have to agree wholeheartedly with that person, we should seek to understand their point of view by looking at the situation from their standpoint.

I think the ability to perceive in a different light is a very important characteristic that can prevent conflict. Just taking a moment to think about why the other person may feel the way that they do, may keep you from engaging in conflict. Remember…it takes at least two sides for conflict to occur.

I believe that there are two very important values that can help prevent conflict. Those are the values of honesty and trust. These values are the cornerstone of all relationships. Honesty refers to the truthfulness of a person (Daft, 2008). Trust is the ability to rely or depend on the actions or statements of another. If our work relationships are founded on trust and honesty, we are more apt to avoid conflict with the other person. People need to value their relationships and work hard to maintain them. People who have strong relationships with others are less apt to be involved in conflict, and if they are, more likely to be able to weather storm based on those strong relationships.

Another important aspect is the affect that emotional intelligence has on a person’s ability to avoid conflict. Emotional intelligent people have good self-awareness; and are able to detect emotions in others and manage emotional cues and information (Robbins & Judge, 2010). Essentially, people who keep their emotions in check and are not quick to react to other people’s emotions, are less likely to be involved in conflict.

Probably the most revealing part of the information I learned during this class was the importance of communication skills to not only avoid conflict, but to resolve conflict when it occurs. I am probably like most people and take communication for granted. I know that I have learned that I need to improve my active listening skills, and not be so quick to act after perceiving one thing or another. I think that part of that comes from not managing my time better. By allowing myself more time to have effective meaningful conversations, I will be more apt to make a conscious effort to be a better listener.

Reference

Daft, R. L. (2008). The leadership experience. (4th ed.). Mason, OH:South-Western.

Fritz, S., Brown, F. W., Lunde, J. P., & Banset, E. A. (2005). Interpersonal skills for leadership. (2nd ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ:Prentice Hall.

Griffith, D. B. & Goodwin, C. (2013). Conflict survival kit:Tools for resolving conflict at work. (2nd ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ:Prentice Hall.

Robbins, S. P. & Judge, T. A. (2010). Essentials of organizational behavior. (10th ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ:Prentice Hall.

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