Manage Conflicts

How to navigate disagreements and promote a positive work environment

The What

Nonviolent communication principles - A-E-I-O-U Model of Managing Conflict.

The How

Assume that both sides have good intention

A – Acknowledge: Assume positive intention and acknowledge their efforts. Make people feel respected and appreciated as a colleague. ”What I hear you saying is…" or “I just wanted to let you know that…”

E – Express: Express your own specific concerns. “I feel/think…”

I – Identify: Non-defensively propose the changes you would like to see occur. Here’s where compromise may occur naturally. “I am wondering if…” or “Would you be willing to…”

O – Outcome: Highlight the benefits of the outcome. “Thanks. I appreciate your flexibility with this issue.”

U – Understanding: Ask for feedback, nail down agreement on nest steps. “How about we try this for a while and see if it works out for both of us?”

🔴 Red Flags

• Avoid closed questions

📜 Tips

• Find the common ground

• Use the common language

• Work with empathy