Summary of:
How Conflict Management is a Tool for Increasing Organizational Effectiveness
John-Eke, E. C., & Akintokunbo, O. O. (2020, May 14). Conflict Management as a tool for increasing organizational effectiveness: A review of literature. International Journal of Academic Research in Environment and Geography. Retrieved March 4, 2022, from Conflict Management as a Tool for Increasing Organizational Effectiveness: A Review of Literature (2020)
Background & Theory
This article focuses on conflict management as a tool for increasing organizational effectiveness. There is an emphasis on identifying the nature of conflicts that may arise in organizations, while also understanding the different levels of conflict. Moreover, there are several strategies outlined in order to foster an inclusive and positive company culture to de-escalate conflict. When these strategies are applied, employee satisfaction is increased, as well as productivity and innovation within any organization.
Research Question(s)
- What are the different levels of conflict?
- What are some methods to de-escalate conflict?
Methods
Conflict Management Strategy Concept
It is important to recognize the timing of when conflict occurs, and to handle it right away. The most pertinent strategy when handling conflict is to focus on strategies that enhance communication between the team. It is also important to recognize the level of conflict, whether it be individual, interpersonal, or intergroup conflicts. The major key points in resolving conflict are through five strategies: collaboration, competition, bargaining, avoidance, and compromising. In using these five strategies, managers can communicate effectively and create trust within the parties involved in the conflict.
Concept of Organizational Effectiveness
Effectiveness is an important factor at all levels of the organization because it gives them a competitive advantage with other organizations in their market. This article highlights how important it is to have technology stacks in place in order to track progress within their employees’ performance. Another effective way of managing conflict is investing in additional leadership training for managers and employees to raise emotional intelligence, but to also have various understandings on how to manage conflict.
Implication of Conflict Management
If conflict is managed effectively, this inspires creativity and productivity within employees. Moreover, it encourages the team to be open minded in listening to the perceptions of others which deepens relationships all across the board. Ultimately, this creates a healthy working environment which boosts employee engagement which then has a ripple effect on revenue.
Results
The results show that conflict is inevitable in our personal or professional lives. Constructive management is pertinent in any organization, it is vital that managers are able to understand the level of conflict and adopt strategies in order to de-escalate conflict. When conflict arises, this is a great learning opportunity for managers and employees to grow together when the right communication skills are applied. When conflict is managed correctly, this fosters a culture of teamwork, trust, innovation, and productivity.
What This Means
- Organizations should re-educate their employees around conflict management
- As managers, it is crucial to be constantly learning about conflict resolution when resolving disputes
- Managers should be open minded and adopt strategies based on the conflict that is occurring
Final Takeaway
For consultants: As consultants, we must constantly be learning about new tools to de-escalate conflict.
For everyone: Although conflict is inevitable, if we have proper communication skills we can work as a team to find a resolution.
