How to Lead a Conflict-Resolution Meeting

After you meet privately with individuals in conflict, you have the option to facilitate a discussion (or mediation) between the parties.

Ask for a Meeting: It is best if you and your colleague can focus on the issue, without being disturbed. Also, you may want to prepare yourself so you can handle the meeting effectively.

There is another key point to consider. You may not want to disclose any of the details of the topic of conversation in an email or a phone call when setting up a meeting. Once you bring up the issue, the conversation starts.

Rather, saying something like “I would like to meet with you to discuss an important issue.” Then when they ask you what it is, it is better to say something like “It would be best to discuss it when we can all focus on it.” This communicates the topic is not quick, that it is important and that it could be complicated and emotional, which helps ensure they set up a time and place for such a conversation. It also creates curiosity on the other party’s part. They are curious and come ready to listen.

Step 1: Prepare for the Discussion

Identify the real problem:

• Obtain the necessary facts and opinions.
• Determine your top priority problem.
• Decide the extent and type of discussion needed.

Plan the discussion:

• Consider who should attend.
• Decide the area to be covered.
• Set an objective for the discussion.
• Decide on possible methods to discuss critical areas.

Arrange the meeting:

• Make sure everyone is prepared.
• Take care of all physical arrangements.

Step 2: Introduce the Discussion

Clarify the objective:

• Explain the problem to be discussed.
• Establish relevant facts and opinions.
• State the specific objective of the discussion.

Stimulate group interest:

• Clarify the importance of the objective.
• Encourage a friendly team spirit.
• Get an agreement on the critical area discussion.

Step 3: Lead the Discussion

Guide the group:

• Stimulate discussion in the first stage.
• Draw op special experience of individuals.
• Ensure that the discussion is shared fairly among all members.
• Explore the reasons for disagreement among members.

Keep the discussions moving forward:

• Ensure that all contributions are understood.
• Keep the discussion on track.
• Summarize progress regularly.
• Lead the group through the remaining stages towards the objective.

Step 4: Conclude the Discussion

Summarize overall progress:

• Ensure all relevant aspects have been considered.

Clarify action to be taken:

• Bring the group to a decision on a specific cause of action.
• Ensure that everyone understands the action to be taken.