Improve Your Conflict Management Skills

Conflict is an inevitable, common feature of life, whether it occurs in the workplace or beyond. A common, yet unhelpful, reaction to conflict is to back away or hide one's head in the sand. This type of avoidance response is not only unhelpful but may actually make the underlying situation worse over time. This advanced course has been specifically developed to help participants move beyond avoidance by developing a fuller, more nuanced knowledge of conflict management, fostering a more confident response to it, and cultivating a higher level of essential skills.

This course follows on from the foundational course, Managing Conflict (led by Dr. Neil Thompson), and strategically builds on those initial basics. We start by establishing three key principles that must underpin any successful conflict resolution effort. The course then thoroughly explores the wide range of common sources of conflict and introduces a number of useful, practical tools for constructively responding to the challenges presented by conflict situations. A critical section highlights the supreme importance of ‘principled negotiation’—a highly effective framework for reaching mutually satisfactory outcomes. Finally, we consider the often-overlooked potential benefits of conflict. Conflict situations have the potential to be very unpleasant and stressful, but when handled skilfully and effectively, they need not be feared. Becoming highly skilled in managing conflict can be extremely valuable in a wide range of careers and life circumstances, increasing confidence and preparing you to respond positively to difficult situations. Mastering these advanced conflict skills is a powerful investment in your professional and personal life.