What role do consultants play in resolving conflicts?

2 Design the resolution process

Another role of consultants in resolving conflicts is to design the resolution process. This involves choosing the most appropriate and effective approach, method, or technique to address the issues. Consultants can use various conflict resolution models, such as negotiation, mediation, arbitration, or facilitation, depending on the nature, complexity, and severity of the conflict. Consultants can also determine the roles, responsibilities, and expectations of each party, as well as the ground rules, agenda, and timeline of the process. By designing the resolution process, consultants can help parties prepare and participate in a constructive and collaborative way.

3 Facilitate the dialogue

A third role of consultants in resolving conflicts is to facilitate the dialogue between the parties. This involves creating a safe, respectful, and trusting environment where parties can communicate openly, honestly, and effectively. Consultants can use various skills and techniques, such as active listening, paraphrasing, summarizing, reframing, questioning, or feedback, to help parties express their views, feelings, and needs, and to understand those of others. Consultants can also help parties manage their emotions, overcome barriers, and resolve misunderstandings. By facilitating the dialogue, consultants can help parties build rapport, empathy, and mutual understanding.

5 Support the implementation

A fifth role of consultants in resolving conflicts is to support the implementation of the agreed solutions. This involves helping parties develop an action plan that specifies the tasks, resources, responsibilities, and deadlines for implementing the solutions. Consultants can also help parties monitor and evaluate the progress and outcomes of the implementation, and provide feedback, coaching, or training as needed. Consultants can also help parties deal with any challenges, risks, or changes that may arise during the implementation. By supporting the implementation, consultants can help parties achieve their goals and sustain the results.

6 Enhance the learning

A sixth role of consultants in resolving conflicts is to enhance the learning of the parties. This involves helping parties reflect on their experiences, insights, and lessons learned from the conflict resolution process. Consultants can also help parties identify and apply the best practices, skills, and strategies that they can use in future situations. Consultants can also help parties celebrate their achievements, appreciate their differences, and strengthen their relationships. By enhancing the learning, consultants can help parties improve their performance, quality, and satisfaction.

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?