Conflict is an unavoidable part of human life. At some point in our lives, we get involved in conflicts, doesn't necessarily have to be combat, can be an exchange of words that are not pleasing to both parties. However, how we handle each conflict says a lot about our character. Handling conflicts can be quite difficult, and this is why you should have strong conflict-resolution skills.

In today's blog post, I will walk you through what conflict resolution is all about, why it is important, and four strategies to help you resolve conflicts more efficiently and positively.

What is conflict resolution?

​​​​​​Conflict resolution is a process whereby two or more opposed parties come together to resolve disputes and achieve consensus. Conflicts are natural in both personal and professional relationships. It can occur between family members and friends, also between coworkers, clients, and customers. A poor conflict resolution skill will only lead to a longer argument that will make it harder to resolve the conflict fast. While good conflict resolution skills will help resolve a conflict more positively whilst maintaining a healthy relationship between both parties. 

Why is conflict resolution important?

In a professional setting, good conflict resolution skill is needed because you interact with people daily and conflict is sure to happen from time to time. Handling the conflict rightly is important to ensure a positive and safe working environment. Everyone in a workplace needs to know how to manage and handle conflicts more professionally as this will improve colleagues relationships, employee performance, and retention rates. Conflict resolution also builds teamwork as it brings people together to resolve an issue. When you're able to come together to reach an agreement that works for everyone, it shows strength, mutual respect, and trust.  

 4 important conflict resolution skills you should know and acquire

1. Active listening: This is one of the important skills to have when it comes to conflict resolution. Be an active listener, and pay attention to what the other party has to say. Of course, it's quite common to think you're the right one but this doesn't help solve conflicts. Instead, go into the resolution with an open mind, and stay quiet while they speak so that you can understand where the other party is coming from. This will help you understand the way they view things and help you know how best to reply and resolve it. Let your mindset be that you want to resolve the issue on the ground, it makes resolution easier. 

2. Communication: Communication is key in every relationship, be it personal or professional. How do you expect others to understand you if you don't communicate how you feel? There should be openness, each party should communicate how they feel comfortably and freely and a resolution should be made together. Open communication prevents issues from escalating. 

3. Don't place blames: One thing you shouldn't do during conflict is to place blames. This will only escalate the issue and make matters worse. The good thing to do is to create a safe space to iron out the issues, everyone should let out their feelings and everyone should be willing to sort it out together. Resolving the issue shouldn't be left to one party but to every side involved. Working together to find a solution to the issue will only solve it faster, create togetherness and encourage teamwork. 

4. Remaining calm: Mostly, the first reaction during a disagreement is anger and frustration. This is a normal reaction but it can be controlled. Yes, you can't let your emotions take over you, that's where emotional intelligence comes in. You need to know how to manage your emotions and that of others. Although, it might be hard to remain cool-headed during an argument it is necessary in order not to exacerbate the issue. In the heat of an argument, it is easy for your emotions to take over and say things you don't mean, that is why you should give yourself some space to breathe, reflect and let your emotions pass before jumping into conflict resolution. You should be calm, cool, and collected before entering into conflict resolution. Get your emotions together, so you can know what to say and how best to present it for a proper resolution.   

Final words

Dear reader, know that conflicts will always occur so you shouldn't try and find ways to avoid conflicts, rather, you should work on your conflict resolution skills. 

Thank you for reading. If you find this post insightful, please drop a like, comment, and share. Thank you ❤️.