Quick Tips for Resolving Conflict In Virtual Teams
I have given many presentations on dealing with conflict in virtual teams and employee relationship management where I show a pi
cture of a man and a woman seated at a table. Then I ask participants, “What is your reaction to this picture? Is it good or bad conflict?” Invariably I get a mixed reaction. Some participants view conflict in virtual teams in a positive light because they see two individuals engaged, while others view it more negatively, seeing a struggle. Conflict is not good or bad; it’s how you approach it that matters.
Why is it important to manage conflict in virtual teams?
Differences in opinions are common. Some level of disagreement is healthy because it can generate ideas. However, misunderstandings can contribute to more serious conflict issues. When stress levels are high (as they often are in the virtual environment), conflict is more likely to arise. Virtual team members often feel indifferent toward each other unless they previously took the time to explore commonalities and begin the process of team bonding.
How can you prevent paying the huge price of conflict and instead reap the benefits of a productive work environment? The first step is to lower barriers by learning how to turn conflict into problem-solving opportunities.
The following are helpful tips for productively managing team conflict:
- Accept conflict as part of organizational life. Observe and acknowledge what has happened. Make it a point to notice what is going on.
- Encourage employees to speak up and ask for help in resolving conflicts. Coach them to understand their coworker’s point of view.
- Prepare employees for managing team conflict; invest in training so that employees will be ready and willing to take ownership of their conflict situations.
- Take care not to confront someone in public (during a conference call, for instance). Address conflict in private with the appropriate individuals first.
- Use a structured approach and common language to address conflicts and be flexible about possible resolutions.
- Learn from the conflict experience so you can improve your skills in this area for the future.
- Above all, choose your battles carefully. Don’t let the urgency of a request push you into giving an emotional response. Stay in control of yourself and calmly evaluate requests.
Excerpt from “A Manager’s Guide to Virtual Teams” by Yael Zofi.
For more tips on resolving conflict in virtual teams hear Yael speak on the topic or visit Amazon to purchase a copy of her book.
