What do you do if conflicts arise within your non-profit team?

1 Identify the source of conflict

The first step to resolving a conflict is to understand what is causing it. Is it a clash of personalities, values, or goals? Is it a misunderstanding, a lack of communication, or a difference of opinion? Is it a structural issue, such as unclear roles, expectations, or processes? By identifying the source of conflict, you can avoid making assumptions, jumping to conclusions, or blaming others. Instead, you can focus on finding a solution that addresses the root cause and meets the needs of all parties involved.

2 Listen actively and empathetically

The second step to resolving a conflict is to listen to each other's perspectives and feelings. Listening is not just hearing what the other person is saying, but also showing interest, respect, and empathy. You can demonstrate active listening by asking open-ended questions, paraphrasing what you heard, acknowledging emotions, and avoiding interruptions or distractions. By listening empathetically, you can validate each other's experiences, build trust, and reduce defensiveness.

3 Express your views respectfully and constructively

The third step to resolving a conflict is to share your own views and concerns in a respectful and constructive way. Respect means that you treat the other person as a human being, not as an enemy or an obstacle. You can show respect by using polite language, avoiding personal attacks, and recognizing their contributions. Constructiveness means that you focus on the issue, not the person, and that you offer suggestions, not complaints. You can be constructive by using "I" statements, explaining your rationale, and proposing solutions.

4 Seek common ground and compromise

The fourth step to resolving a conflict is to find areas of agreement and compromise. Common ground means that you identify the shared values, goals, or interests that unite you as a team. You can find common ground by emphasizing your mission, vision, and impact, and by reminding yourselves of your mutual respect and appreciation. Compromise means that you are willing to give up something in order to gain something else. You can compromise by prioritizing the most important issues, exploring alternatives, and making trade-offs.

5 Implement and monitor the solution

The fifth step to resolving a conflict is to implement and monitor the solution that you have agreed on. Implementation means that you put the solution into action, following the steps, roles, and timelines that you have defined. You can implement the solution by communicating clearly, providing support, and celebrating achievements. Monitoring means that you check the progress and outcomes of the solution, and that you make adjustments if needed. You can monitor the solution by collecting feedback, measuring results, and reviewing lessons learned.

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?