Conflict Res

11 Pages 2668 Words

Conflict Resolution in Work Teams


Abstract

As growing companies gear their employees toward a team working environment, the need for conflict resolution increases. Team conflict arises from different values, attitudes and opinions each team member brings to a particular group. With extensive research into resolution techniques and tactical management philosophies, results show that when properly managed, conflict can result in great benefits for the ultimate success of a working team.












Conflict resolution in work teams
A major advantage a team has over an individual is its diversity of resources, knowledge, and ideas. However, diversity also produces conflict. As more and more organizations restructure to work teams the need for training in conflict resolution will continue to grow. Varney (1989) reports “Conflict remained the number-one problem for most of the teams operating within a large energy company, even after repeated training sessions on how to resolve conflict and how to minimize the negative impact on team members”. One reason for this may be that mangers and leaders within these organizations are not giving the issue of resolving conflict enough attention. Varney's research showed that although most managers are aware of disagreements and have received training in conflict resolution, they seldom assign a high priority to solving conflict problems. It is critical that team members possess skills to resolve conflict among them.
Within any group of people, conflict will arise in some way shape or form. We are all different people with different ways of thinking and problem solving procedures. Avoidance of conflict is a waste of valuable time and effort. One should concentrate more on easing conflict and steering it into something more productive. Everyone has there own opinions and views to offer, otherwise all houses would be blue, everyone would have the same hair cut, and marri...