How can you develop conflict resolution skills without a mentor?

1 Self-assess your style

The first step to developing conflict resolution skills is to understand your own style and preferences when it comes to dealing with conflicts. There are different ways to approach a conflict, such as avoiding, accommodating, competing, compromising, or collaborating. Each style has its strengths and weaknesses, depending on the situation and the relationship. You can use online tools, such as the Thomas-Kilmann Conflict Mode Instrument, to assess your style and learn more about how it affects your interactions with others.

2 Learn from others

Another way to develop conflict resolution skills without a mentor is to learn from others who have experience and expertise in this area. You can observe how they handle conflicts, what strategies and techniques they use, and how they communicate and listen to others. You can also ask them questions, seek advice, or request feedback from them, if possible. You can also read books, articles, blogs, podcasts, or watch videos that offer insights and tips on conflict resolution from different perspectives and contexts.

3 Practice with scenarios

A third way to develop conflict resolution skills without a mentor is to practice with scenarios that simulate real-life situations. You can use case studies, role plays, simulations, or games that challenge you to apply your skills and knowledge to resolve conflicts. You can do this alone or with a partner or a group, depending on the scenario and your goals. You can also create your own scenarios based on your experiences or interests. The key is to practice regularly and reflect on your performance and outcomes.

4 Seek feedback and evaluation

A fourth way to develop conflict resolution skills without a mentor is to seek feedback and evaluation from others who are involved or affected by the conflict. You can ask them how they felt, what they liked or disliked, what they learned, and what they would do differently. You can also ask them to rate your skills and behaviors, such as your communication, listening, empathy, assertiveness, creativity, and problem-solving. You can use online tools, such as surveys, quizzes, or rubrics, to collect and analyze feedback and evaluation.

5 Review and improve

A fifth way to develop conflict resolution skills without a mentor is to review and improve your skills and behaviors based on the feedback and evaluation you received. You can identify your strengths and weaknesses, your achievements and challenges, and your areas of improvement and growth. You can also set goals and action plans to enhance your skills and behaviors, such as learning new strategies, techniques, or tools, or practicing more frequently or in different situations. You can also monitor your progress and celebrate your successes.

6 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?