The following contains excerpts from the resource, Conflict Resolution Guide (Carnegie Training Institute).
Invariably, when more than one artist or musician enters the room, there will be differences not only of opinions, but deeply held convictions. This is potentially an environment for explosive conflict. However, one of the greatest joys in creativity is in learning to partner with others.
In our music school in Odessa Texas, we hope to help students successfully navigate conflict for the purpose of highly successful and meaningful collaboration.
This resource, “Conflict Resolution Guide” is straight-forward in its goal, as the title suggests, giving practical tips on how to handle conflicts in the workplace. It starts out by quoting John D. Rockefeller, “The ability to deal with people is as purchasable a commodity as sugar or coffee, and I will pay more for that ability than for any other under the sun.”
Being able to handle conflict in a productive way is frequently mentioned as one of the most challenging skills for people. In order to help individuals become aware of their own unique way they handle conflicts, the following questions are initially asked:
1. Can I be swayed to someone else’s point of view?
2. Do I shut down people who I disagree with?
3. Do I address the issue at hand diplomatically and not attack the individual?
4. Do I think that others try to “bully” their way with me?
5. Do I express my thoughts and beliefs tactfully when others differ from those just expressed?
6. Rather than offer my opinion when I disagree with someone, do I keep it to myself?
7. Do I listen to other people’s point of view with an open mind?
8. Do I let my emotions get the best of me?
9. Do I raise my voice to make my point?
10. Do I tend to belittle other people when making my point?
11. Do I look for ways to negotiate and compromise with others?
12. Have I been told I am too pushy?
13. Do I make sure I have my opinion heard in any controversy?
14. Do I think conflict in meetings is necessary?
15. Am I the most vocal in meetings when trying to get my point across?
We hope to help students in our music school in Odessa Texas understand the value of learning how to work with people in artistic venues as well as in life.
Once this self-quiz is taken, an individual can assess whether they are Passive, Assertive, or Aggressive in dealing with conflicts. Having an assertive personality is not necessarily a bad thing. A person can be such a pushover that they allow difficult people to walk all over them, and would benefit from learning to stand up for their ideas. The author quotes, “Don’t be afraid of opposition. Remember, a kite rises against, not with, the wind” (Hamilton Wright Mabie).
We encourage students in our music school in Odessa Texas to view problems as opportunities.
When analyzing conflicts, the author encourages the reader to ask, “Exactly how do I perceive my role in relation to others involved in this issue? Do I take responsibility for clarifying my role with others involved? I am prepared to change my perception of my role? Do I show a willingness to be flexible in achieving my organization’s goals? Do I stay positive? Do I view any role change in terms of the opportunities it presents?
The five main categories of conflicts are: Process, Role, Interpersonal, Directional, and External. In order to minimize conflicts, the following strategies are given in each category:
Process Conflicts:
- Ask yourself, “How much control do I have over this process conflict?”
- Identify the root cause of the problem and analyze the improvement opportunity.
- We try to encourage students in our music school in Odessa Texas to properly assess what the problems are, in order to imagine solutions.
- Talk first to the owner of the process.
- Describe the current problem and get agreement.
- Suggest a workable solution and action plan.
- Follow-through on the plan and give recognition to the owner of the process.
Role Conflicts:
- Ask yourself, “Exactly how do I perceive my role in relation to others involved in this issue?
- Take responsibility for clarifying your role with others involved.
- Be prepared to change your perception of your role.
- Show your willingness to be flexible in achieving your organization’s goals.
- Stay positive.
We want students in our music school in Odessa Texas to learn to maintain a positive outlook, even in the midst of difficult circumstances.
- View any role change in terms of the opportunities it presents.
Interpersonal Conflicts:
- Ask yourself, “How much do my personal biases and prejudices affect this relationship?”
- Write down three behaviors that you could change in order to reduce the conflict in this relationship.
- Commit to following through on these changes for at least three months.
- Ask the other person involved how you could defuse the existing conflict. Encourage feedback that might seem brutally honest.
- Put yourself in their position. How do you think they view your commitment to reducing conflict in your relationship? Why?
- Make a list of 5 strengths that you see in the other person. Then list five ways that improving this relationship would benefit you.
Direction Conflicts:
- Ask yourself, “Am I clear on the direction or vision?”
- Clarify the discrepancy so that it can be easily described in neutral words and take action.
- Ask permission to address the discrepancy with the other person in a friendly, non-confrontational way and gain agreement.
- Use “I” and “we” messages rather than “you” messages.
- If there is a difference in values, always go with the higher value.
- Make authentic commitments.
External Conflicts:
- Ask yourself, “How much control do I have over this factor?”
- Choose to fight battles that are worth the price.
- Put your energy into things you “can do” rather than complain about what you “can’t do.”
- Do something good for others.
- Maintain perspective and a sense of purpose.
- Talk to someone you trust.
These are all good suggestions which will undoubtedly prove effective when applied, and we support and encourage all of these suggested solutions to help students in our music school in Odessa Texas to develop into successful artists and community leaders.