Breaking the Silence: Confronting Conflict Avoidance Head-On
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In the dynamic landscape of the professional world, effective leadership extends beyond decision-making and goal setting, it also includes mastering the art of conflict resolution.
As a seasoned Leadership and Career Coach, I have spoken to many professionals who often choose to avoid discussing matters that they are unhappy with, rather than bringing them up with their superiors. They often feel they would rather not have a difficult conversation, or that they don’t want to hear the wrong response as it could lead to more frustration. They often assume that their concerns won’t be heard.
I always encourage people to speak up about their issues, in a measured and professional way, in order to give leaders a chance to respond. When team members don’t speak up, the problems can grow way out of proportion and escalate internally causing stress and burnout.
Often, raising concerns doesn’t create conflict, it’s just a conversation, and every team member has the right to be heard.
Leaders that I work with know that they would want their team members to voice their frustrations, yet they hold back with their own. So, let’s explore this.
This blog will help us to look at how you can face your own vulnerability and approach your leaders with issues affecting your work life, with some practical tips to transform the way you can navigate this.
The Leadership Conundrum
Leaders who sidestep conflict often share common traits:
– A desire to maintain harmony
– An aversion to upsetting others
– A tendency to frame challenging discussions as potential conflicts
Brené Brown, American professor, author, and podcast host’s, research on vulnerability sheds light on the discomfort associated with these situations, while Patrick Lencioni, author of The Five Dysfunctions of a Team, adds depth by emphasising the impact of trust on team performance.
Rethinking Conflict as an Opportunity
It's crucial to challenge the notion of conflict as completely negative. Conflicts, when handled carefully, present opportunities for growth and improvement. The integration of “radical candour”, as advocated by Brown, and Lencioni's focus on trust-building, becomes paramount in fostering an environment of open communication.
Radical candour is a communication philosophy that encourages leaders to strike a balance between caring personally and challenging directly. The idea is to foster a workplace culture where individuals feel genuinely supported and cared for, while also receiving honest and direct feedback that helps them grow and improve. This approach is seen to build strong, trusting relationships within a team and promote personal development.
Embracing Vulnerability
Brown's work advocates for leaders to perceive vulnerability not as a weakness but as a strength. To lead authentically is to embrace vulnerability, creating an environment where team members feel safe expressing themselves. Leaders can share personal experiences, openly acknowledge mistakes, and actively seek feedback to grow this authenticity.
Practical Tips for Leaders
Making the shift towards “radical candour” and open communication requires practical steps. Leaders can frame difficult conversations positively, actively listen to team members, and create safe spaces. Let me expand on these tips, providing a comprehensive guide for leaders to implement positive changes in communication style:
1. Positive Framing - Approach difficult conversations with a focus on solutions and mutual benefit. Clearly articulate the positive outcomes that can arise from addressing the issue at hand.
2. Active Listening - Cultivate the art of active listening by giving full attention, summarising key points, and asking clarifying questions. This not only demonstrates respect but also ensures a clearer understanding of others' perspectives.
3. Psychological Safety - Foster an environment where team members feel safe to voice their opinions without fear of reprisal. Encourage open dialogue.
4. Feedback Loop - Establish a consistent feedback loop where both positive and constructive feedback is welcomed. This creates a culture of continuous improvement and strengthens the bond between leaders and their teams.
In the ever-evolving landscape of leadership, the ability to navigate difficult conversations is indispensable. Embracing radical candour, vulnerability, and promoting open communication not only transforms workplace culture but also establishes you as a strong leader who nurtures professional growth.
My 1-2-1 coaching programme will help you to harness these teachings in your own working environment, break free from conflict avoidance, and embrace the power of open communication. Click here to book your FREE 30 minute discovery call.