Conflict Styles

Principle: Different situations call for different conflict resolution styles.

Promise: Applying the conflict style best suited for each situation can lead to more effective

conflict navigation.

Playbook:

1. Learn the Five Styles: Familiarize yourself with the five main conflict styles—competing,

   collaborating, compromising, avoiding, and accommodating. Understand the strengths and

   weaknesses of each style.

2. Assess the Situation: Before deciding how to respond to a conflict, evaluate the situation

   to determine which style is most appropriate. Consider factors like the relationship

   between the parties, the importance of the issue, and the urgency of resolution.

3. Choose Appropriately: Select a conflict style that aligns with your goals for the interaction.

   For instance, use collaborating when the outcome is important to both parties, or

   accommodating when the issue is more important to the other person.

4. Reflect on Outcomes: After resolving a conflict, reflect on the effectiveness of the style

   chosen. Was it the right fit? What worked well, and what could be improved?

5. Adapt as Necessary: Be flexible in your approach to conflict. Developing the ability to

   switch between styles as situations change is a key skill in effective conflict management.

Prompt: Think of a recent conflict where you used a specific style. Was it effective? Write down the

situation, the style used, and the outcome. Consider if a different style might have led to a better

resolution, and why.