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Team Dynamics: Conflict Resolution Strategies
First, we must understand that teams consist of personnel with varied backgrounds, experience, education, and intellectual ability. These differences will, by nature lend themselves to varying perceptions in business, its problems and solutions, which result in conflicts within the team. Conflict has more to do with personal styles than the actual problem. Team leaders bring together certain people who possess the necessary aptitude to solve a particular problem but do not take in consideration the problem-solving styles, or cognitive styles, of the individuals involved. (Falcioni, 2007)
When management selects individuals for a team, the emphasis should be placed on what each member brings to the team. An example, if a member displays talent in a given area, but has the attitude of “Get out of the way, or get run over,” the team should be balanced with an individual who is less aggressive. He/she should possess a control factor, which will not allow the value of a “team” to diminish. This will bring cohesion between the members and not highlight just one individual. If the aggressive individual continues without a balancing factor, the team will lose the benefits of what other members have to offer. It is of the utmost importance to choose a varied group of individuals that will keep each other in check. Good leadership in those choosing the right members is only the beginning. Teamwork cannot be demanded. Everyone involved must discuss and understand what the goal is and what is required of them. Teams should have traits such as goals and objectives, empowerment, trust, authentic participation, innovation, creativity, risk taking and leadership. (Temme and Katzel, 1995)
While finding a good balance, conflicts will most certainly arise. Conflict resolution strategies must be utilized, for the team to be effective and meet the goals and objective of their assignment. These conflicts may be more evident in certain...