Three Sources of Conflict

In my experience working with organisations there are three factors behind most organisational conflicts:

1. Differences in behaviour and communication styles

2. Differences in priorities and values

3. Workplace conditions, including poor communications from leaders

Some personalities just seem to clash. It's important to determine why two people rub each other the wrong way. Do they have opposing behavioural styles?

For example, an extrovert who is open and expressive could view an introvert as hard to read and perhaps untrustworthy. Likewise, a time-conscious, highly organised employee may harshly judge a spontaneous colleague. Someone who is highly analytical and precise might view an intuitive person as impulsive and flaky.

Teaching team members to understand basic human differences can help them overcome tendencies to judge and make assumptions. They can learn to accept coworkers’ differences. Consider using any of the commonly accepted assessment tools, such as PRISM or Belbin.

Workshops provide another option. An extrovert can learn to ask questions to draw out an introvert. The highly organized team member can learn to set more realistic deadlines.

Understanding personality differences can help prevent clashes and conflicts before they become ongoing problems.

I offer several options for learning about personalities in the workplace to help deal with differences and conflicts.

Expectations and Assumptions

People have different needs, values, beliefs, assumptions and cultural frameworks. Our expectations are fed by past experiences. If you erroneously assume that others are essentially mirror images, your lack of clarity can create strife.

Leaders and teams must explore others’ expectations, assumptions, underlying values and priorities. This can be accomplished in group or individual sessions, led by a manager or coach.

When there is an elevated degree of conflict, it's wise to retain a professional who is trained in interpersonal skills and mediation.

Behind every complaint is an underlying value that goes unsatisfied. Asking questions like “What’s really important here?” often allows people to uncover competing values and priorities. You will facilitate more authentic conversations when you ask the right questions.

What do you think about these ideas? What do you see as a major source of conflict in your organisation?

7 Things to Consider to Ensure your #TeamBuilding Event Hits the Spot

Are you planning a TeamBuilding event? If you are here are some of the things you need to think about.

 

1.       What do you want to achieve? When arranging an event it is important to ensure that you are clear about your aims and objectives for the event. Is it an event where you want the team to get to know each other better and have some fun? Is that your sole objective? Or do you want something more? If it is something more what are the desired outcomes you have for the event?  And how are you going to measure if the event has been successful?  All of these are questions you need to ask before you can decide on the type of event that you are going to arrange. If you are not sure, talk it through with your facilitator and event organiser to help you to clarify the intentions.
2.       How long have you got available? Realistically there is only so much you can achieve in an afternoon or even a full day. So don’t set your ambitions too high, but make sure they are realistic and practical. Remember that if you are not holding an event onsite (which is always the best option) you may need to allow travel time. In fact, why not make the travel part of the day and book a coach or mini bus to pick everyone up?
3.       Budget. Whilst money may not be your main concern, everyone wants to feel that they have got value for money. When organising your event, make sure your event organiser has a realistic understanding about your budget and be prepared to discuss it with them. Good professional organisers will not try and sell you something you can’t afford and will help you to maximise your budget to get the best possible event.
4.       Number of people. The number of people you have coming to the event can make a big difference to what works and what doesn’t. Make sure that your event is suitable for the size of your group
5.       How adventurous are your team? There are vast number of different types of team building events available now, so you don’t need to run outdoor activities if indoor ones are more suited to your team, or the weather! Climbing mountains maybe the right answer for some, but not all. And indoor events need to be equally carefully considered. Whilst some people love music and drama others may prefer cooking or painting. Remember that it is not always possible to please everyone in the group, but a general consensus is helpful. Always bear in mind however, that any experience outside the norm may make some people uncomfortable – after all that is how we learn and grow as people.
6.       Choose professional facilitation. A professional facilitator will not only ensure that the day runs as smoothly as possible, but will also add to the experience by bring his/her knowledge to the event. Good team events include good set-up and de-briefing by a professional facilitator. If you are not sure who to choose ask for recommendations from others.
7.       Follow up after the event. Make sure that you and your team take on any learning points from the day and start to work them into your daily routine wherever possible. This might be a different way of working together or recognition of someone’s skills that were not appreciated before. Whatever it is, make sure that the team event is part of an on going process in your organisation. Not a one off jolly!

Team events should be productive, energetic and fun. Make sure yours gets your team fired up and enthusiastic!