Minimizing Conflict Between in the Organization

In an organization, individuals belonging to different cultures come together and engage in
dialogue with each other. Various cultures bring different beliefs, ideologies,
values and perceptions. This may result in conflicts and makes it difficult for
individuals to work together.

There are many types of conflicts that may arise in organization due to cultural differences.

1.     Interpersonal conflicts: These types of conflicts
arise as a result of clashes between two or more individuals in an
organization. They are classified into 3 categories. Vertical conflicts (Between
manager and subordinates), lateral conflicts (Between two individuals at the
same position) and diagonal conflicts (Between people at different position)

2.     Intrapersonal conflicts: These conflicts take place
between two individuals having clashes in thoughts, principles, or ideologies.

3.     Intergroup conflicts: This type of conflicts
arises when there is a clash between different groups in an organization.

4.     Intragroup conflicts: This type of conflicts
arises mainly between people within a group or department.

Irrespective of their type, conflicts may have serious impact in the performance of individuals and
the organization.  However they have
positive impacts too, such as increase in individual’s performance due to competitive
feelings, minimization of distance among people, clarification of old problems,
and generation of new ideas.

To manage conflicts, there are number of techniques used by organization.

1.     Avoiding:     In this technique, people avoid conflicts by simply
changing the topic or denying any situation that may lead to a problem.

2.     Accommodating:
In this technique, an individual
shows high concern for others needs as compared to their own needs.

3.     Competing: Individuals with his style are highly assertive in
nature and take a stand for what they know and want. They like to dominate
others in case of conflicts.

4.     Collaborating:
In this technique, individuals or
groups are willing to work together to achieve common goals.

5.     Compromising:
In this technique, individuals or
groups try to satisfy themselves partially. In this people believe in the give
and take approach in which they try to reach agreeable terms.