On Conflict & Collaboration

In re-reviewing Margaret Heffernan’s outstanding talk on Conflict Management in all spheres’ of ?home/work/life - I was drawn to the opposite of Conflict – Collaboration.

Collaboration is talked about in every facet of work life. It is critical. But, do we really understand what collaboration is? For most people, it’s getting along. Nodding your head in acquiescence. It’s not being labeled as ‘difficult’.

The impact of this approach can be visible at many levels. But seen through the lens of your customer, it could be harmful.

Getting people on teams that truly have different perspectives, experiences, thinking styles - can create conflict. The very opposite of collaboration. And human nature likes to surround itself with like-minded people.

What then does collaboration look like? One thought-approach is: when conflicting ideas, personalities and approaches meld together in a cohesive stream to solve a problem / create a benefit. What you end up with, hopefully, is a more robust solution. A broader & deeper benefit. The other take-away: Learning happens at the intersection of conflict & collaboration.

So how do you facilitate this juxtaposition of opposites? This then takes a special kind of person – courageous, flexible, patient, persistent – a Leader.