Here's how you can tackle common conflicts as a mid-career professional.

1 Assess Issues

When faced with conflict, take a step back and objectively assess the situation. Identify the core issues and the parties involved. It's important to understand that conflicts often arise from miscommunication, differing values, or competition for resources. By pinpointing the root cause, you can address the actual problem rather than getting sidetracked by symptoms or personal grievances. Remember, your goal is to resolve the conflict, not to win an argument, so maintain a focus on finding common ground and building understanding.

2 Open Dialogue

Initiating an open dialogue is crucial for conflict resolution. Approach the conversation with a willingness to listen and understand the other person's perspective. Use "I" statements to express your feelings without placing blame, such as "I feel concerned when..." This technique fosters a more receptive environment and reduces defensiveness. Ensure that the conversation stays on topic and that both parties have an opportunity to speak. Active listening and empathy are key components in this stage; they demonstrate respect and can help de-escalate tensions.

4 Set Boundaries

Setting clear boundaries is an essential part of resolving conflicts. These boundaries help define acceptable behavior and ensure that mutual respect is maintained. Be explicit about what is non-negotiable for you and why it's important. At the same time, be respectful of the other person's boundaries. This mutual respect for boundaries can prevent future conflicts and establish a more harmonious working relationship. Remember, setting boundaries is not about creating barriers; it's about clarifying expectations and promoting a healthy work environment.

5 Follow Up

After reaching an agreement, it's important to follow up to ensure that the resolution is being implemented effectively. This could mean scheduling a meeting to review progress or simply checking in informally. Following up demonstrates your commitment to the resolution and helps hold both parties accountable. It also provides an opportunity to adjust the solution if it's not working as intended. Effective follow-up can reinforce the relationship and show that you value a constructive resolution.

6 Reflect & Learn

Reflecting on the conflict and the resolution process is a valuable learning opportunity. Consider what worked well and what could have been handled differently. Use this reflection to refine your conflict resolution skills for future situations. By learning from each experience, you become better equipped to manage conflicts proactively and with greater confidence. Continuous learning and self-improvement are hallmarks of successful professionals at any stage in their career.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?