Conflict is normal and will occur even in the most solid workplaces.
Conflict arises from:
- Miscommunication
- Misunderstandings
- Differing viewpoints or beliefs about a situation
- Threats to employment status or professional reputation
- Unmet needs
- Broken trust
Unmanaged conflict can lead to stress, job dissatisfaction, decreased productivity, negative health impacts, retention issues, and lower team morale.
Conflict is not the problem. The problem is how conflict is managed and resolved. Understanding the underlying causes of conflict and our responses to the situation, leads to more successful resolutions. With the right guidance, the effective resolution of conflict can actually strengthen workplace relationships and morale.
CMDR services are designed to resolve conflict, repair workplace relationships, and improve communication so that employees can thrive personally and professionally. We specialize in workplace conflict and work to create a positive path forward for all parties involved in the conflict.
The services of CMDR are voluntary and private (except for legal reporting requirements, such as Title IX). Schedule an individual consultation with CMDR to discuss which services best meet your needs.
Mediation & Facilitated Discussion
Facilitated Discussion
Mediation is an informal, structured process led by a neutral, trained mediator. The mediator does not make decisions for the parties or judge the issues. The parties are empowered to decide which issues to address in mediation and to work toward agreements on those issues.
Facilitated Discussion
Similar to mediation, facilitation is a problem-solving process guided by a neutral trained facilitator. The facilitator will not make decisions or judge the issues. The facilitator will work to address communication patterns, helping the parties clarify misunderstandings and articulate their needs, interests, and expectations. The facilitator will work toward a plan for parties to interact in more positive ways going forward.
When to try mediation or a facilitated discussion:
- Poor communication has led to misunderstandings and different expectations
- Maintaining an ongoing relationship with the other person is important
- Parties want to retain control of the outcome and work creatively toward solutions
- Desire to resolve the issues at the lowest-possible level and avoid publicity.
- Assistance in communication and presentation of information is needed
- Desire to have open, honest discussions in a safe environment
- Willingness to actively listen to understand the concerns, interests and needs of each party
- Willingness to collaborate to make agreements that are acceptable to both parties
- Desire for both parties to adhere to agreements. Agreements made mutually and collaboratively have increased buy-in and adherence).
- Commitment to focus on the future and how to improve relationships and issues moving forward.
CMDR Conflict/Communication Coaching
Coaching is an opportunity for staff, whether an employee or supervisor, to work one on one with a conflict resolution specialist on conflict management, communication, management best practices, and/or career development. The coaching session allows you to analyze your conflict/issue in a safe environment to help you identify its source and impact. Coaching allows you to take a closer look at your own role in the workplace dynamic, learn ways to position yourself in the future, and communicate to have productive interactions that may deescalate emotions and lead to problem solving.
CMDR Training
Conflict-management training is offered for managers and employees to develop basic concepts, skills, and processes to assist in understanding the sources of conflict. We explore the psychobiological effects of conflict, your own response to conflict, and how to communicate with someone who has a different approach. CMDR now offers over 15 hours of online training through Lynda.com organized into three categories: (1) Conflict Management Foundations; (2) Effective Communication and Listening; and (3) Relationship and Team-Building.
Current Training Offerings:
HR Essentials: Conflict & Communication (Register via UT Learn)
Coming Soon:
Departmental Trainings by Request
Manager Training
To schedule a consultation appointment:
- Schedule a consultation to discuss which services best meet your needs.
- Email cmdr@austin.utexas.edu to request an appointment. Include your phone number and whether a morning or afternoon slot is better for an initial 1-hour appointment.
- Alternate method if email is not available: Call 512-475-7930 and leave a detailed, clear voicemail with your name, EID, email address, phone number, a brief description of your issue, and whether a morning or afternoon slot is better for an initial 1-hour appointment. If your message is unclear, then we may not be able to contact you.
If you are considering filing a formal grievance, then please reach out as soon as possible to schedule a consultation. You must reach out to CMDR within 10 University Business days of the incident and meet with the Dispute Resolution Officer in order to file a grievance
Resources
The Office of Conflict Management and Dispute Resolution is a resource to the entire staff population. Other valuable resources are provided to employees during consultations. Other helpful resources: