Conflict Resolution Strategies HeatherPenrod University of Phoenix Gen 300 Skills for Professional Development December 18, 2008 The conflict resolution process is useful for effectively managing conflict in your work place, in relationships, or in other situations where you have an interest in seeking a negotiated solution. Conflict resolution strategies won’t guarantee an agreement, but they greatly improve the likelihood that the problems can be understood, solutions explored, and consideration of the advantages of a negotiated agreement can occur within a relatively constructive environment. Consider these conflict resolution strategies to reduce the impacts of stress, fears and surprise factors involved in dealing with conflict. The first step is Self-awareness and care. This step is essential to an effective approach to conflict management. Being aware of my own biases and buttons, I can prepare myself mentally, emotionally and physically to respond in an ideal way. Also, if I take good care of myself by exercising, eating properly and getting adequate sleep, this will help me to listen well and clearly express my needs in attempting to work out a solution to the conflict. Questions to consider include: What are some behaviors by other people that tend to be difficult for one to handle during conflict? How do I tend to respond when confronting such behaviors? How would I prefer to respond? What are some things that I can do for myself that help me develop a more personally affirming environment? How can I treat myself with respect, so I can draw on that energy in times of stress? Are there people in my environment that can help me stay focused in these situations? The second step to conflict management is clarifying personal needs threatened by dispute. There are different ways of responding to conflicts, and those responses lead to understandable consequences. Responses include our behaviors, feelings, thoughts, and...