Thursday, February 9, 2012
Options In Conflict
1).
I choose my conflict orientation largely based upon the relationship I have with the other person involved. On average, I try to use a win-win type solution when conflicts arise, however, it depends on the context.
For example, if I were hanging out with someone to whom i’m only causally acquainted (someone who I wouldn’t quite count as a friend) and they asked if I wanted to grab sushi for lunch, I may be inclined to smile and say, “Sure, lets do sushi” even though I would much rather prefer In-In Out Burger. At this point in our relationship, I may choose an “Other-Centered” approach while still getting to know the person.
Yes, I do generally favor the outcomes of my conflicts because I choose my conflict orientation method strategically. In the professional world, during a business meeting or a strategy session I will take a more assertive posture while also emphasizing collaboration. I always will keep in mind the paramount need to preserve the working relationship I have with those around me.
-Ben
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Ben, you bring up a really good point, and in this particular blog, you kind of shined a new light on what exactly is meant by orientation. I think that you pose a really good point in the situation your are talking about with someone your casually acquainted with, it makes a lot of sense, that you are choosing to use that type of orientation to make this situation one without having conflict. i think that people fail to realize that they arent always right and need to have consideration for others before following through with their actions.
ReplyDeleteHi Ben,
ReplyDeleteI too feel that my choice of conflict strategy is largely based on the relationship with the person, as well as the context. It is difficult to say that one would practice a particular orientation at all times since we tend to treat relationships differently based on factors such as longevity, trust, and the depth of the relationship. I like how you gave examples of how these orientation strategies might be applied to your own life, and I agree with your viewpoint that the best possible option is to try and find a solution that will result in a win-win for each person involved.