What's your strategy for community outreach conflicts?

1 Identify the source of conflict

The first step to resolving any conflict is to understand what is causing it. Is it a misunderstanding, a miscommunication, a mismatch of goals, or a clash of values? Try to listen actively and empathically to the other party, and ask open-ended questions to clarify their point of view. Avoid making assumptions, judgments, or accusations, and acknowledge their feelings and concerns. By identifying the source of conflict, you can also determine if it is a substantive issue that needs to be addressed, or a relational issue that needs to be repaired.

2 Choose the appropriate response

Depending on the nature and intensity of the conflict, you may need to adopt different responses. Avoiding the conflict may be suitable for minor or temporary issues, but it can also lead to escalation if it persists or worsens. Accommodating the other party may be appropriate for low-stakes or one-time issues, but it can also lead to a loss of credibility or satisfaction if you sacrifice your own needs or interests too often. Competing and asserting your own position may be necessary for urgent or critical issues, but it can also lead to hostility or damage to the relationship if you disregard the other party's needs or interests. Collaborating with the other party to find a mutually beneficial solution may be suitable for complex or long-term issues, but it can also be time-consuming or challenging if there is a lack of trust, cooperation, or resources. Compromising and finding a middle ground with the other party may be suitable for moderate or short-term issues, but it can also be unsatisfying if it does not address the underlying causes of the conflict.

3 Communicate constructively

Regardless of the response you choose, it's important to communicate constructively with the other party to resolve the conflict. To do this, use "I" statements to express your own feelings and needs, rather than blaming or attacking them. Speak in a positive and respectful manner, and use active listening skills to show that you are paying attention. You should also give and receive constructive and specific feedback, as well as use problem-solving skills to identify and analyze the problem, generate possible solutions, and implement the agreed solution. This is far more effective than avoiding, imposing, or settling for a suboptimal solution.

4 Learn and improve

The final step to resolving any conflict is to learn and improve from the experience. Reflect on what went well and wrong, and seek feedback from a third party. Celebrate and reward the resolution by expressing gratitude or recognition. Additionally, follow up and check in with the other party or stakeholders on how the solution is working, and make any necessary adjustments. By following these steps and strategies, you can develop your community outreach skills and handle conflicts more effectively and constructively. This will help build stronger relationships with community members, creating more value and impact for your organization and cause.

5 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?