Significance

• Workplace conflict can either weaken company teamwork or make the organization stronger. Effective conflict negotiation leads to conflict resolution that improves the workplace. According to Mind Tools, a better-business-skills development resource, important conflict negotiation characteristics include calmness, patience and respect.
  
  

Identification

• Problem identification serves as the first step towards resolution. Mind Tools recommends listening to the other person and viewing the conflict from his perspective before sharing your own. When sharing your feelings, avoid accusations.
  
  

Considerations

• Use “I” statements to help avoid accusations. “I” statements focus on how you feel rather than the actions of the other person. For example, “I felt ignored during yesterday’s staff meeting” will likely be perceived better than “You ignored me during yesterday’s staff meeting.”
  
  

Solution

• Once the workplace conflict has been identified, the parties involved should work together to set a goal for the solution and brainstorm the best ways to reach it. A collaborative solution helps to ensure that the resolution provides mutual satisfaction.
  
  

Warning

• Not all workplace conflicts can be solved without help. In cases where either party cannot look at the conflict objectively, a third party should assist in the negotiation process.