I would like to think that I handle it pretty well most of the time although I do experience anxiety/stress both before and during the process which sometimes impacts on my ability think clearly.
I recall an occasion when I was on the student council at university and the Women’s Representative wanted a designated breast-feeding room. She was given the approval to investigate options and survey breast-feeding mothers to determine their needs/wants. At the next meeting, she explained the current arrangements provided, the room that could be assigned by the university and the responses from the mothers that would use the room.
The conflict arose when the Women’s Rep wanted to go ahead with her plan and the rest of the SRC voted no based on her survey responses. I recall several people suggesting ways to improve the current space such as more comfortable chairs, extra microwave, kettle, etc. After a heated discussion, we voted on the motion again and it was voted down a second time. I Eventually called a ‘point of order’ to force the following of protocol when the Women’s Rep refused to let the issue go. The tension/conflict was never fully resolved as the Women’s Rep was adamant that we had to have a designated Mother’s Room despite none of the student mothers actually wanting it.
According to a quick online survey I am willing to compromise and collaborate to resolve conflicts and do not shy away or avoid issues when they arise. I also scored moderately for being competitive during conflict resolutions. Thinking about this and the above scenario, I feel that I did respond in that way and almost worked through those steps in that order –collaborate, compromise and then when that didn’t work, I pushed hard for a resolution.
I think communication skills are key to being able to resolve conflict well in the best interests of all parties. Unfortunately, not everyone is willing to listen to the reasons or opinions of others – especially when someone is passionate – and you can reach an impasse. This is when the leadership team/person comes in and has to resolve the issue on behalf of everyone; hopefully in the best interests of everyone involved. When this happens, it is everyone’s responsibility to act in a professional way and get on with their job.