Conflict resolution strategy #2

Success Problem

Avoid escalating tensions with threats and provocative moves.

Impact

When we feel we’re being ignored or steamrolled, we often try to capture the other party’s attention by making a threat, such as saying we’ll take a dispute to court or try to ruin the other party’s business reputation. There’s a time and place for litigation, but threats and other attention-getting moves, such as take-it-or-leave-it offers, are often a mistake. And many people may realize it later on.

Recommendation

Because of the common human tendency to treat others the way they’re treated, people tend to respond to threats in kind, leading to an escalatory spiral and worsening conflict. Before making a threat, be sure you have exhausted all other options for managing conflict. Try to remember that lose - win is not always the worst option. It may help us to move ahead with new pespective.

Category

• Conflict & Crisis