Building Effective Teams

Building Effective Teams

Building Effective Teams
HRM345-1102A-01
Instructor Theodore Okendu
April 9, 2011

Conflict is something that occurs in all types relationships.   When dealing with the dynamics of a team, conflict can be even more prevalent than in other types of relationships.   This is because the more diverse the team, the greater the chances for personalities to clash.   What needs to be understood is that conflict is not something that should be ignored, but embraced.   If handled properly, conflict can be beneficial for organizations.   Conflict is neither good or bad, but rather a necessary evil.   Whether it is constructive or destructive depends on an individual’s reaction and attitude toward the issue that is causing the conflict (Understanding Conflict, 2011).  

By understanding the benefits of conflict within an organization, the surplus of unused creativity and skills for problem solving can be released.   When the conflict is managed effectively, it can deliver a new stage of cooperation and cohesiveness within the organization.   Knowing the differences between functional and dysfunctional conflict is the key to making this come about, as well as making sure to deal with any disagreements in the correct way (Robbins, 2009).

Embracing conflict is the best solution, instead of avoiding it.   There should be discussions that include all parties involved in the conflict. By letting each individual state their issue and a possible solution to the conflict will have a fast resolution to the problems that are causing the conflict and negotiate on a resolution.   As soon as all parties have negotiated and have come to some type of agreement, implementation should be the next step.   If everyone has had the opportunity to be heard, then implementation should be effortless.   Since all parties are aware of the decisions, it is easier to get across the decisions to the rest of the team (Dyer, 2007).  

As a student and having to work in groups with other students from...