Conflict resolution is needed in everyday life especially in the workplace. Colleagues should embrace effective communication skills, teamwork, and learn to develop positive attitudes towards each other for more productivity. This essay will give a reflection of my knowledge on conflict resolution experienced in the workplace and analyses what can be learnt in the process. The paper also describes how the learnt knowledge can be of use in conflict resolution at other contexts, specifying the methods that were used in the process.
I have experienced interpersonal skills in solving conflicts in the workplace several times. Interpersonal skills often require one to have some skills in teamwork and problem solving techniques (Katz, Kochan & Alexander, 2017). As an intern at a law firm in Mississippi, I once had a misunderstanding with my fellow colleague concerning the arrangement and storage of case files relating to a particular case. I was supposed to represent my client but I found his file missing, As a result I confronted my colleague in charge of storing files , however, the confrontation did not end well (Katz, Kochan & Alexander, 2017). The case was not represented in the court and I recall my department head, Mike Paul, sitting down with me and my colleague in an effort to resolve the conflict between us. Paul pointed out that my action towards my colleague was unprofessional and I had to apologize for being harsh to him. Moreover, Paul also pointed out that my colleague’s reaction towards my harsh comments was not productive and that his act of misplacing the files was derailing teamwork efforts to make timely and effectively court representations (Katz, Kochan & Alexander, 2017). I remember at the end of the process my colleague and I agreed to avoid any other possible conflict in the future as we agreed to embrace teamwork and develop better attitudes towards each other.
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From the experience, I learnt that conflicts in the workplace are not productive and they can only lead to more misunderstandings. Effective communication skills and teamwork are vital in any workplace to avoid any possible conflicts (Francis, 2003). Moreover, it is also true that developing positive attitudes towards other colleagues should always be considered since it is an important aspect of avoiding conflict cases. I have also come to appreciate the use of effective communication skills n enhancing better interpersonal relationships in a workplace. Staff in workplaces should strive at using proper tones and words while communicating especially while angered or under pressure (Francis, 2003). Developing positive attitudes towards other colleagues should be encouraged among colleagues. This will ensure that workers seek to understand the cause of any event before judging and uttering irreversible and harsh words. Additionally, embracing teamwork should be the focus of every employee since it builds trust and eliminates conflicts.
Currently, I am permanently working in a law firm in Tennessee and with confidence; I can say that my experience has been stunning. I have not only mastered the skills of conflict resolution but I am also in a good position to solve other arising conflicts within my subordinates (Francis, 2003). I have taken upon myself to encourage my subordinates to develop positive attitude towards each other and embrace teamwork while performing their duties. When conflicts arises, I am always at the forefront in ensuring that the conflict is resolved and the colleagues are able to engage in effective communication methods that are productive.
Conclusion
In a nutshell, conflict resolution in the workplace is vital in enhancing a harmonious workplace environment and higher productivity. Interpersonal skills like effective communication and problem solving skills are necessary in solving conflicts and the involved parties should also develop positive attitudes towards each other.
References
Francis, S. (2003). The Complete Guide to Conflict Resolution in the Workplace. Human Resource Management , 42 (1), 99–101. https://doi.org/10.1002/hrm.10068
Harry C. Katz, Thomas A. Kochan, & Alexander J. S. Colvin. (2017). 12. Conflict Resolution at the Workplace . Ithaca: Cornell University Press. Retrieved from http://165.193.178.96/login?url=http%3a%2f%2fsearch.ebscohost.com%2flogin.aspx%3fdirect%3dtrue%26db%3dedspmu%26AN%3dedspmu.MUSE9781501713880.22%26site%3deds-live
