INTERPERSONAL CHANGE RESOURCES

NAVIGATING CONFLICT

Navigating Conflict

Conflict is a natural part of the ecosystem of a healthy team. Most leaders and team members are trained into worrying that conflict can only be seen as part of a non-functioning team.

Conflict in and of itself is not a bad thing. It arises because of differences, of beliefs, opinions, personalities, etc. It can be navigated and it can also be a creative force when navigated successfully.

Some resources to get you started:

  1. The Thomas-Kilman Inventory - this self-assessment tool introduces you to the 5 primary conflict navigations modes or preferences that exist, and which of the 5 are your primary modes and which are your least utilized modes. You can also learn about how to express each mode effectively and how they show up ineffectively.

    The Thomas-Kilman 5 strategies for navigating conflict are:

    1. Competing: assertive and uncooperative

    2. Collaborating: cooperative and assertive

    3. Compromising: moderately assertive and cooperative

    4. Avoiding: unassertive and uncooperative

    5. Accommodating: cooperative and unassertive.

    Taking the TKI self-assessment (you can do so through https://kilmanndiagnostics.com) can lead to:

    • Improved self-awareness: The KCI helps individuals understand their natural conflict resolution style and its strengths and limitations.

    • Enhanced flexibility: By recognizing and understanding other styles, individuals can adapt their approach to different conflict situations.

    • Improved communication: The KCI promotes open communication and understanding of different perspectives in conflict resolution.

    • Increased collaboration: By using a more collaborative approach, individuals can work together to find mutually beneficial solutions.

    • Better decision-making: The KCI can help individuals make informed decisions during conflict by considering various options and outcomes.

 

2. Three short learning videos overviewing the Thomas-Kilman framework and how you can use it. The first one is from our very own Healthy Teaming practical and the two others by Dr Ralph Kilmann, the co-creator of the framework (from his online site https://kilmanndiagnostics.com )