Finding Common Ground - Essential Values For Conflict Resolution

By Author: Michael Gregory Consulting, LLC
Total Articles: 15
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Knowing the shared values and listening actively are necessary to build understanding between both parties. Focusing on interests rather than just positions allows for innovative solutions. Acknowledging emotions and treating others respectfully creates a collaborative environment. Finding common ground strengthens relationships and results in better outcomes for everyone.

Content -Conflict is an inevitable aspect of life. Disagreements arise between colleagues, family, or friends. But these clashes don't need to escalate into negativity. Focus on core values and understand each other to navigate conflict situations constructively. Please check out the below-discussed essential values for effective conflict resolution:

Understanding - Building Bridges through Shared Values

A productive conflict resolution depends on understanding. Start by identifying common values and beliefs. Research can be a great help, such as exploring social media profiles or discussing mutual connections to gain a sense of the other person's perspective.

While both parties interact with each other, it’s essential to listen ...
... actively to understand core values. Using words like "honesty," "integrity," or "fairness" can showcase the potential agreement. Demonstrating these values can build trust and a more open environment.

Be Tough on the Problem and Gentle on the People

Effective conflict resolution requires differentiating the people involved from the issue at hand. Everyone has their own biases and emotions based on their experiences. It’s important to acknowledge these feelings without resorting to blame.

Listen actively to the other person's perspective. Try to see things from their point of view and ask why they feel this way. What are their underlying concerns? Suspending judgment and exploring their perspective can expand personal understanding and identify potential solutions.

Acknowledge Emotions without Blaming Each Other

Conflict can turn emotional quickly. Avoid the blame game, and never point fingers at others or beat yourself up. Instead, focus on managing your own emotions and helping another person to do the same. Stay calm and respectful to demonstrate emotional intelligence even when tense situations arise.

Treat Others Respectfully

The golden rule for effective conflict resolution – treat other parties as they would like to be treated – is a good starting point. For better understanding, consider the platinum rule, i.e., treating others as they want to be treated.  You don’t necessarily know how they want to be treated unless you ask them. 

Exploring what others want requires an effort to understand the cultural and organizational background of other persons. Know whether they value directness or prefer a more indirect approach.  Building trust is essential if they've had negative experiences with similar situations.

From Positions to Interests - Finding the Common Ground

Negotiation often boils down to positions—what every party demands. But true solutions depend on understanding the underlying interests behind every position. These interests can open doors for compromise.

Use open-ended questions to motivate the other person to explain their reasoning. Ask them why they hold a specific position and what their outcome would be. This can showcase their true concerns and open the door to finding solutions that satisfy both parties' interests.

Considering Appreciation to Build Bridges

Acknowledge and appreciate the other person's perspective regarding conflict resolution. During conflicts, everyone wants to feel heard and valued. Seeing merit in their ideas can help break down barriers and create a more collaborative ambiance.

Focus on core values, understanding each other, and mutual appreciation to transform conflict from a battleground into a springboard for innovative solutions and stronger relationships. Consider taking help from a professional mediation and negotiation specialist to provide effective conflict resolution solutions.

Author Information – This article was written by Michael Gregory, a qualified mediation and negotiation specialist dedicated to bringing closure to difficult conflict situations in the best way possible.