You’re a transportation manager facing a conflict. What skills do you need to resolve it?

1 Communication skills

Communication is the key to resolving any conflict, as it allows you to express your needs, listen to others, and find common ground. As a transportation manager, you need to communicate clearly, respectfully, and assertively with different parties, such as drivers, dispatchers, customers, suppliers, regulators, or the public. You also need to use different channels and formats, such as phone calls, emails, reports, or presentations, depending on the situation and the audience. To communicate well, you need to avoid jargon, use active voice, ask open-ended questions, provide feedback, and summarize the main points.

2 Negotiation skills

Negotiation is the process of reaching an agreement that satisfies the interests of all the parties involved in a conflict. As a transportation manager, you need to negotiate with various stakeholders, such as customers, suppliers, or regulators, to achieve optimal outcomes for your organization and maintain good relationships. To negotiate effectively, you need to prepare well, identify your goals and priorities, understand the other side's perspective and needs, explore options and alternatives, and propose solutions that create value for both sides. You also need to be flexible, respectful, and cooperative, and avoid ultimatums, threats, or concessions.

3 Problem-solving skills

Problem-solving is the ability to identify, analyze, and resolve issues that arise in your work environment. As a transportation manager, you need to solve problems that affect the efficiency, safety, and quality of your transportation operations, such as delays, disruptions, accidents, or breakdowns. To solve problems effectively, you need to follow a systematic approach, such as the PDCA (Plan-Do-Check-Act) cycle, which involves defining the problem, collecting and analyzing data, generating and implementing solutions, and evaluating and improving the results. You also need to use tools and techniques, such as root cause analysis, brainstorming, or decision matrices, to support your problem-solving process.

5 Emotional intelligence skills

Emotional intelligence is the ability to understand and manage your own and others' emotions, especially in stressful or challenging situations. As a transportation manager, you need to cope with the pressure and uncertainty of your work environment, such as changing customer demands, tight deadlines, or unexpected events. To cope well, you need to regulate your emotions, such as anger, frustration, or anxiety, and avoid reacting impulsively or defensively. You also need to empathize with the emotions of others, such as customers, suppliers, or staff, and respond appropriately and constructively. You also need to use positive emotions, such as optimism, gratitude, or humor, to enhance your well-being and performance.