Communication challenges are part of most, if not all, conflicts. That’s why honing our communication skills is so central to addressing conflict in a healthy and productive way. Even people who pride themselves on being effective communicators often face challenges in situations of conflict.
One of the most critical skills used by mediators, negotiators, and restorative practitioners is listening. Listening and asking open-ended questions – without assumptions, without wanting to win – changes a conversation dynamic in unexpected ways and opens up possibilities for resolution. Listening well is much harder than it seems. It takes practice, patience, and an open mind.
You do not have to change your values or your beliefs to engage in constructive conversations. But slowing down, treating others with empathy and humility, and being open to new possibilities, will create faster and longer-lasting resolution of conflict than staking your claim with an unmovable position.
What resources would you like to see on this page? Click on this form to send us your ideas!
