http://www.facebook.com/pages/CFR-Mediation/271140287576
In many ways business partnerships are like marriages or any other committed relationship – and along with the potential positive aspects of a relationship, come all of the potential conflicts and problems.
Business conflict, like any other, can be extremely difficult to address. Even those partnerships that form with the best intentions and shared goals are vulnerable to the communication issues and conflicts that can derail any relationship or marriage.
When business conflicts arise, what is seen as a professional “business” relationship can appear and feel much more personal than business.
Often there is a business partnership agreement – which spells out how the relationship will function, although some business partnerships may not have written a comprehensive agreement. Regardless, conflict is conflict…..and most likely it is not a pleasant experience.
Just like any conflict or dispute – individuals are going to respond in different ways. Some people will avoid the conflict at all costs – much like an ostrich sticking its head in the sand. Some will try to “win” at the onset by bullying or bossing the person they are conflict with. Parties can even come to blows or worse.
Unfortunately disputes between business partners can linger and grow. It can be common to look for solutions to the conflict that have little to do with working it out. Perhaps it seems easier to ignore the issue or break things apart versus working together to find a positive win-win solution to the issue. Not only does this mean a higher level of conflict, but also potential irreversible damage to the business.
In business conflict, even between partners, is to be expected. Proactively addressing issues mitigates the damage to the business and the relationship. It is even possible that a business partnership can be strengthened if partners in dispute actively engage in an alternative conflict resolution process (adr) such as mediation.
Mediation is a means where the business partners can engage in a process that supports the shared interests of the parties, building on their areas of agreement, and moving the past the emotional positions that support the conflict.
Additional Reading:
- Desired Outcomes In Mediation
- A Little Preparation Can Go A Long Way
- Arbitration and Mediation, What’s the Difference
- Conflict Resolution & Stress
- Pride = Increased Conflict
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Tags: business dispute, business partnerships, conflict, dispute, employee, employee benefit, employee mediation, grievance, Mediation, Workplace Conflict
