You’re working with team members who have different work styles. How can you resolve conflicts?

Well, Conflict is part and parcel when you are working in any team so difference of opinion is always there. Being a Project Manager I chalk out a workflow that needs to be adhered by each team member. Designing that workflow required me to collaborate with the teams on their ideas and problems. So for this, I have to be firstly clear with my preferences and values and then set a plan for the team.. I gathered my learnings and pitfalls to manage the plans..

Knowing our own profile means listen to our soul and accordingly find the best way to satisfy our desires and this is the same principle to the other person, the enneagram allows us to identify our tendency and our challenges so we can anticipate what can improve the flow of the collaboration and don’t forget to identify what type of conversation is in action , is it practical , emotional or social so the communication is conscious clear concise reciprocal and exact !

Opening to change is the biggest challenge yet it's what makes a win-win situation. For any successful teamwork, one needs to have an open mind for changes. As there are different roles of the team and different points of view, I used to collect feedback from my team on a monthly basis and implement some of the useful work styles benefit to others.. So in short -Don't judge too much -Have a positive mind and be open to change -Make yourself comfortable with team. -Don't be too bossy and accept no sometimes

We are all different and as a team should complement each other’s skills and ways of working. This means it may not be your way but together creates great results (hopefully). However, as a freelancer, I do adapt to a certain point as to how my client’s work so that it makes their life easier and I provide them with the service they need.

In my view, this is really important. I remember seeing Simon Sinek talk about it too. He explained how when a team trusts each other more, it's less toxic and everyone shares more. Now, when I say sharing, I don't mean we start spilling our life stories at work (although that's not necessarily a bad thing either, but let's save that for another chat). It is more about being clear and straightforward about what's expected, what we can do, and when we need a hand.

Firstly, it's essential to foster an environment where team members feel comfortable expressing their perspectives and concerns without fear of judgment. Actively listening to each other's viewpoints helps in gaining insights into the underlying reasons for conflicts. From there, finding common ground and mutually acceptable solutions becomes more feasible. Additionally, embracing diversity in work styles can enrich the team's overall dynamics by leveraging the strengths of each approach. Encouraging open dialogue and promoting a culture of respect and collaboration are key elements in navigating conflicts effectively. Ultimately, by focusing on shared goals and maintaining open lines of communication.

Imagine a group project where one team member prefers to meticulously plan every step, while another prefers to dive in and adjust along the way. Conflict may arise when these contrasting approaches clash. In such situations, finding a middle ground by blending elements of both styles could be beneficial. For instance, the planner could outline a rough framework to satisfy their need for structure, while the more spontaneous member could contribute by suggesting flexible adjustments as needed. This compromise allows each team member to feel heard and valued while moving the project forward effectively. Flexibility and willingness to adapt to each other's work styles ultimately foster a more harmonious and productive team environment.

Think of it like asking for advice from a friend when you're stuck on a problem. In a team setting, you might seek support from a team leader, supervisor, or even a mentor who can offer insights and suggestions on how to address the differences in work styles constructively. By reaching out for help, you're acknowledging that you value the team's success over individual preferences and are willing to collaborate to find solutions. This approach not only resolves conflicts but also fosters a sense of unity and cooperation within the team.

It's crucial to acknowledge that conflict resolution isn't always straightforward and may require careful consideration and effort from all parties involved. Imagine a situation where one team member prefers to tackle tasks methodically and meticulously, while another thrives in a fast-paced, spontaneous environment. Conflict might arise if they clash over the pace or approach to completing a project. In such cases, simply telling them to "work it out" may not suffice. It may require sitting down together, discussing each other's preferences, and finding common ground or compromise. This process could involve adjusting deadlines, dividing tasks based on each person's strengths, or even seeking guidance from a supervisor.