Conflict prevention and how to make conflict productive

Abstract

Conflict in the work place can take many forms and can have both positive and negative impacts on the team. It is imperative that a manager identifies the cause/type of conflict and puts in place the required measures to resolve any issues that may impact on the team's performance and lead to reduced job satisfaction. This article discusses the potential causes of conflict that arise in the workplace such as competing for resources, differing styles, differing perception, conflicting goals, conflicting pressures, role overlap, differing personal values and unpredictable policies. Measures in order to mitigate any conflict are discussed along with techniques to resolve any conflict when it does occur. Such prevention measures focus on communication at the individual and team level and encourage input from all team members on how the team's goals are achieved.