How to Approach Conflict Resolution for Productive Conversations

In this week’s edition, I am discussing conflict. Conflict can quickly become an issue in the workplace and often arise due to differences in opinion, misunderstandings, or even personality clashes.

Conflicts not resolved effectively can lead to decreased productivity, low morale, and employee turnover. However, disputes can be resolved with the right approach. Here are some tips for approaching conflict resolution from a productive point of view to move through difficult conversations and hard feedback.

Active Listening

Active listening is vital when resolving conflicts in a high-stress environment. Understanding the other person’s perspective is important to find a solution.

1. Avoid interrupting: Interrupting the other person can escalate the situation and make it harder to find a resolution. Let the other person finish expressing their thoughts before speaking.
2. Repeat what they said: Repeat what the other person said to ensure you understand their perspective. This shows that you’re actively listening and helps prevent misunderstandings.
3. Ask clarifying questions: If you’re unsure what the other person means, ask questions. This can help you get a better understanding of their point of view.

When you actively listen, you show the other person that you value their opinion and are willing to work towards a resolution.

It can also help you to identify any misunderstandings or assumptions that may be contributing to the conflict.

Stay Calm

In a high-stress environment, staying calm and not letting emotions take over is essential. Emotions can cloud judgment and escalate the conflict. Keep these in mind to help you stay calm:

1. Take deep breaths: Deep breathing can help you relax and stay calm. Take a few deep breaths before responding to the other person.
2. Take a break: If the situation is particularly stressful, take a break to clear your head and calm down. Step away from the situation for a few minutes and come back to it when you’re feeling calmer.
3. Focus on the issue: Stay focused on the issue at hand and try not to let personal feelings get in the way to avoid cross-talking about multiple subjects simultaneously. Don’t bring up past conflicts or emotional issues irrelevant to the current situation.

Staying calm can help prevent the situation from escalating and allow you to approach the conflict clearly.

Find a Solution

The ultimate goal is to find a solution to the conflict. Practice these ideas to find a solution to the conflict. It’s not about being right.

1. Brainstorm possible solutions: Brainstorm possible solutions with the other person to find a mutually beneficial solution. Encourage open communication and consider all ideas.
2. Consider all options: Consider all options before deciding on a solution. This can help ensure that the solution is fair and reasonable. Think about the potential consequences and effects of each option.
3. Agree on a solution: Once you’ve found a solution, agree on it and take steps to implement it. Ensure everyone involved is on board with the solution and understands their role in implementing it.

Finding a solution requires cooperation and compromise from both parties. It’s important to approach the situation with a solution-focused attitude rather than trying to assign blame or seek revenge.

After all, we are serving the production. Trying to be right or put it onto someone else will hurt the production rather than be collaborative.

As stage managers, we are constantly working to resolve conflict. We can successfully resolve conflicts in a high-stress environment, but it’s important to listen actively, stay calm, and focus on finding a solution. Conflict resolution skills are valuable in personal and professional settings and can help improve relationships and reduce stress at work.

Also by Bryan Runion:

Preparing for Hard Conversations

Inviting Feedback, Encouraging Diversity and Challenging Tradition