You’re managing a project with a lot of conflict. How can you keep everyone on the same page?

1 Identify the sources of conflict

The first step to resolving conflict is to understand what is causing it. Is it a matter of resources, deadlines, goals, roles, or personal styles? Is it based on facts, assumptions, or emotions? Is it constructive or destructive? By identifying the sources of conflict, you can address the real issues and avoid getting sidetracked by irrelevant or personal matters.

3 Seek common ground and compromise

The third step to resolving conflict is to seek common ground and compromise with the parties involved. This means focusing on the shared goals and interests of the project, rather than the individual preferences or agendas. You also need to be flexible and willing to adjust your expectations and solutions, as long as they do not compromise the quality or scope of the project. You can use techniques such as brainstorming, prioritizing, or voting to generate and evaluate alternatives.

4 Escalate when necessary

The fourth step to resolving conflict is to escalate when necessary. Sometimes, despite your best efforts, you may not be able to resolve a conflict by yourself or with the parties involved. In that case, you may need to seek help from a higher authority, such as your supervisor, sponsor, or client, or from a neutral third party, such as a mediator, arbitrator, or facilitator. You should escalate only when you have exhausted all other options and when the conflict is affecting the progress or outcome of the project.

5 Learn and improve

The fifth step to resolving conflict is to learn and improve from the experience. Conflict is inevitable in any project, but it can also be an opportunity to grow and enhance your interpersonal communication skills. You should reflect on what went well and what went wrong, and how you can apply the lessons learned to future projects. You should also provide and receive feedback, and appreciate and recognize the contributions and efforts of everyone involved in the project.

6 Maintain positive relationships

The sixth and final step to resolving conflict is to maintain positive relationships with all the stakeholders involved in the project. This means expressing gratitude, appreciation, and respect, and building trust and rapport. You should also celebrate the successes and achievements of the project, and acknowledge the challenges and difficulties. By maintaining positive relationships, you can foster a collaborative and supportive work environment, and reduce the likelihood and impact of future conflicts.

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?