3 Tips for Conflict Resolution

The truth of the matter is that conflict is just a part of life. We've all been in situations where a conflict is caused due to a difference of goals or needs, and we've all seen what can happen when a conflict goes unresolved, and it usually isn't good. Conflicting goals often lead to personal dislike and can have a negative affect on teamwork. The good news is that by understanding that conflict is just a fact a life, we can take steps towards positive conflict resolution, which leads to not only professional, but also personal growth.

Here are 3 tips to conflict resolution:

1. Agree on the problem: This may seem obvious, but you would be surprised to learn how often people are having an argument over nothing at all. People perceive things differently, so you need to make sure that everyone is in agreement on what the problem is that needs to be solved. If you absolutely cannot agree on the problem, you must at least do your best to understand the problem as the other person sees it.
2. Listen: This is probably the most important tip for conflict resolution. Listen to what the other person has to say. We've all been wrong before, and we will all be wrong again, so listen to what other people have to say, and we mean actually listen. Don't interrupt and try to counteract every point they have. Let them explain their point of view and they will be more likely to allow you to do the same.
3. Brainstorm: If the goal is to have everyone satisfied with the solution, then give everyone a voice and the opportunity to share their opinion. Oftentimes, groups will come up with a better alternative solution together than each individual could have come up with on their own.

Conflict can be extremely disruptive to the workplace, and when it comes to community associations, it can lead to problems that may ultimately negatively affect residents. As a property manager or community association leader, it's important to understand that people approach conflict differently, and that it's your job to make sure that the overall community is running smoothly and the decisions being made are for the good of the community, not just an association member. As long as you lead meetings in which everyone has a voice and a non-confrontational atmosphere is encouraged, you have the ability to engage in conflict resolution and turn it into something positive that can bring a whole team closer together.