What is an important action for a manager to take when dealing with conflict?

Role-modeling collaborative negotiation is crucial for managers dealing with conflict as it sets a constructive tone for resolution. When a manager demonstrates collaborative negotiation, they actively seek to understand different perspectives, encourage open dialogue, and work towards a mutually beneficial solution. This not only helps in addressing the immediate conflict but also fosters a positive team culture where collaboration and communication are valued.

By participating in collaborative negotiation, a manager shows their commitment to resolving issues transparently and effectively, which can help mitigate misunderstandings and build trust among team members. This approach also encourages team members to adopt similar strategies in their interactions, creating a more harmonious work environment.

In contrast, ignoring conflicts can lead to unresolved issues that may escalate over time, while prioritizing one team’s interests can create resentment and further division. Limiting communication to formal meetings restricts the open exchange of ideas and can prevent the spontaneous dialogue necessary for true collaboration. Thus, role-modeling collaborative negotiation not only addresses the current conflict but also equips the team with the skills to handle future disagreements more effectively.