Conflict Resolution at Work for Dummies®

Chapter 17. Sitting Down to Talk Through the Issues

In This Chapter

• Balancing the roles of facilitator and participant

• Mediating a conflict in which you're involved

• Finding solutions and positive alternatives

• Putting your words into action

You've likely let a lot of little things go between you and the person with whom you're having a conflict. If left unchecked, little things can amount to a bigger problem. A better strategy is to sit down, discuss the situation, and clear the air. But initiating a productive conversation about difficult topics takes courage. Though it may feel uncomfortable and risky to talk about the situation, you can use the tools in this chapter to keep yourself calm and focused and to keep the conversation productive.

Prior to sitting down with the other person, identify both of your needs using the tips and tools I lay out in Chapter 15. Refer to Chapter 16 for some details you need to consider when asking for a meeting, and, if necessary, tailor your approach to fit your audience by looking at how the organization chart may influence some of your decisions (see Chapter 18).

In this chapter, I walk you through how to mediate your own conflict, make your point, and consider the other person's perspective with an open mind. I give you tips on how to keep things on track while the two of you discuss the issues, and I also give you some ideas about what you can do next if you just can't seem to work it out.

Preparing to Mediate Your Own Conflict

You'll wear two hats ...