Book Review: Conflict Resolution At Work For Dummies

Conflict Resolution at Work for Dummies Book Review
As anyone who has been in the working world for even a small amount of time can attest, conflicts can often arise at work with a boss, a peer, or a subordinate. The key focus and point of Conflict Resolution at Work for Dummies is a “how-to”, step-by-step guide for avoiding and mediating conflict in the workplace.

Workplace conflicts can be avoided by following a set process and asking the right questions. Communication seems to be a common denominator in conflict. The author puts emphasis on how to approach several scenarios, when to approach it and provides detailed advise. Resolving conflict with another peer or even amongst your team, the right questions need to asked For example , “What would you like to see happen?” By asking the other person involved in the conflict what they would like to see happen, there is a much clearer understanding as to what is it they actually want. For example, someone may ask

At my workplace, sometimes roles are “assumed” and if people are unaware it looks like they are being lazy or don’t care, when in reality they were just not told or shown how to do so. I also think emotions taking over conversations is another issue. When people start getting loud or angry, they are often unreasonable. This can cause a lot of unnecessary stress from co-workers who don’t feel heard because they are “drowned out” by the more emotional