You're a servant leader who needs to resolve conflict. What are the most important skills you need?

As a servant leader, the key is to understand others and be able to put yourself in their shoes. This includes active listening and empathy, for example. By cultivating these "skills", you can connect with team members, gain insights into the issues, and understand the root causes more easily and diffuse the conflict.

There are 3 levels of listening - strive for the highest . LEVEL 1: Listening to Respond Most common. Least valuable. Listening to respond is how most people listen. It involves us formulating a response in our head, as the other person speaks. LEVEL 2: Listening to Understand Less common. More valuable. This is what most people refer to as Active Listening. Listener repeats what they heard, in their own words, for validation. LEVEL 3: Listening to Feel Least common. Most valuable. This involves active listening, PLUS striving to understand how the speaker feels. Listeners response includes, "I heard you say.... and I think that means you feel.... is that right?" Servant leaders should strive for LEVEL 3 Listening.

Try RASA framework for Active listening: R - Receive A- pay Attention S - Summarize A - Ask Questions This is surely an effective way to gain the right inputs for resolving a conflict giving enough confidence to the speaker that they are being empathetically heard.

Active listening is a critical component of the conflict resolution process. Put away distractions like mobile phones or computers to show your commitment. Avoid making judgmental expressions that may escalate tension. Suspend your own judgements and try to see the situation from the perspective of other people. Avoid drawing prejudiced conclusions and assumptions prematurely. Keep your emotions in check, even if the conversation becomes challenging. Active listening in the context of conflict resolution helps create an atmosphere of understanding and strengthens a more collaborative approach to finding solutions

Active listening is a powerful tool that often goes underutilized. It's about more than just hearing words; it's about truly comprehending the emotions and intentions behind them. When I focus on understanding someone's point of view, I find that solutions to conflicts become clearer. By being present and engaged, I signal that their thoughts matter to me, which can help de-escalate tension. It's not always easy, especially if emotions run high, but the effort to listen deeply can transform a potential argument into a constructive conversation.

Empathy is the bridge that connects us during disagreements. When we truly listen and recognize someone's feelings, it's like saying, "I see you and your experiences matter." This doesn't mean we always agree, but it does mean we give respect and space to their perspective. By doing so, we often find common ground and a path forward that respects both sides. It's not just about solving a problem; it's about valuing the person as we work through the issue together.

Assertive communication is a delicate balance. It's about being honest and clear about your thoughts and desires while maintaining respect for others. It's not just about what you say, but how you say it—your tone, your body language, and your willingness to listen are just as important as the words you choose. When you communicate assertively, you're not looking to win the conversation; you're aiming to reach a solution that acknowledges everyone's input. This approach can defuse tension and foster a more collaborative environment, whether at work, at home, or in social settings. It's a skill that takes practice, but it's worth the effort because it leads to healthier relationships and more productive discussions.

Creative collaboration is like a puzzle where each person holds a piece. When we come together with openness and a genuine desire to understand each other's viewpoints, we can fit these pieces into a complete picture that everyone appreciates. It's not about who's right or wrong, but about pooling our unique insights to forge a solution that reflects our collective wisdom. By focusing on shared goals and being willing to adapt, we often discover solutions that we might never have thought of alone. This approach not only resolves conflicts but can also strengthen relationships and foster a sense of community.

Continuous learning helps a lot in conflict resolution. It's about taking the time after a disagreement to think about what happened. Ask yourself, what did I discover about my reactions or the other person's viewpoint? It's also about talking to those involved to understand their perspectives and to share your own. This isn't just about pointing out mistakes but also recognizing what went well. By doing this, you can figure out how to handle similar situations better in the future. Each conflict teaches you something new that you can use next time. This approach not only helps you improve as a person but also sets a positive example for others, encouraging a space where everyone learns from their experiences.