Resolving Interpersonal Conflict

This is a hypothetical situation with bits and pieces of real life encounter:

A, B and C are university project group mates for a module. They are not very close friends though they have been acquainted for one year. Initially, everyone is getting along fine. However, after a few weeks, A notices that B seems to detest C. Whenever C starts to make a comment, B will interrupt and stop her from talking. B will also avoid having eye contact with C.

Possible causes: A thinks that B is behaving this way because he gets irritated by the way C keeps babbling about things unrelated to the project. C always has the tendency to sidetrack or suggest unrealistic ideas. Another possible reason is that B and C have very different personalities. B is more serious, prefers to keep things on track, and likes to get things done as soon as possible. C is more outspoken and has a wilder imagination, thus the tendency to sidetrack during discussions.

B feels: “If I do not interrupt C, she will make those unconstructive comments again and we will not be able to keep to our agenda. What I do is all for the good of the project or else we may not be able to meet the datelines.”

C feels: “I don’t know why B is treating me this way. She practically ignores my presence and all the suggestions I have made. I am hurt by her actions.”

A feels: “I am at a loss of what to do. What can I do to resolve the conflict between B and C without hurting the feelings of both?”

Effective Communication Skills

The science of communication has always been an art which many find difficult to master. We often find ourselves get caught in undesired situations due to poor communication skills. Conflicts, misunderstandings and straining relationships are just a few consequences we have to deal with when we fail to place sufficient emphasis on the communication process.

Effective communication is one of the most important building blocks in healthy relationships, be it the relationship with parents, friends or colleagues. With a multi-cultural setting in Singapore, one will face problems in overcoming cultural and language differences to get the message conveyed. As an effective communicator, misunderstandings arising because of inappropriate nonverbal cues will be avoided. Conflicts can be resolved timely or even be avoided. Clear and concise messages will mean that no clarifications are needed.

Effective communication plays an integral role in increasing efficient functioning in the corporate world. Upon graduation, job searching will become the foremost concern of graduates. The ability to write an impressive resume and to articulate well in the interview will allow one to leave a deeper impression on your potential employers than your competitors. When there are many competent candidates with qualifications equal or higher than yours out there, academic credentials is no longer the primary deciding factor that will give one an edge over the others. The right candidate is one who can write, speak, and listen effectively, and who can ultimately gain the respect of her colleagues and subordinates in the workplace.

Effective communication is a vital life-long skill. It’s a skill for life!