Resolving Organizational Conflict – a Seven Step Process
Conflict in an organization is inevitable. If the conflict is addressed in an healthy
manner it can be a means to enhance innovation and teamwork. When the
opposite occurs it will, at some point, adversely impact every aspect of morale
and performance. Based on our extensive experience in a variety of setting the
following seven steps will help repair damaged relationships and build the
capacity of the organization to address and manage conflict.
1) Organizational Assessment
Conduct confidential interviews (and surveys) with the members of the unit
and identify and analyze the key challenges and issues facing the unit.
Develop recommendations to address these challenges.
2) Review Session with organizational leadership
Review the findings and recommendations from the assessment with the
leader and/or leadership team. Develop an agreed upon plan of next steps
for moving forward. As needed, conduct confidential feedback and
coaching with the leader.
3) Leadership Development and Planning with the Leadership Team
Based on the initial assessment and review conduct an offsite or on-site
sessions to strengthen and align the leadership team. The sessions may
include leadership skills and confidence building, as well as team building
and strategic planning related to managing change, conflict and culture.
5) Alignment and Mediation Sessions
If needed, plan and facilitate meetings with selected individuals or groups
to discuss the issues, enhance mutual understanding and develop and gain
commitment to workable solutions for moving forward.
6) Facilitate All Hands Team Building Session
Plan and conduct a team building session for all unit members. The goal to
establish and implement the norms, agreements and competencies that
maintain a culture of professionalism and a respectful workplace.
7) Follow up Leadership Team Coaching
Conduct coaching and just in time training to continue to build specific
leadership competencies. Ensure progress is maintained on implementing
the agreements, understandings and accountabilities reached during the
previous discussions.