Abstract
Conflict resolution has never been an easy process for an organization that comprises people from diverse backgrounds and equally diverse lines of thought. This is because many different and contradicting ideas are raised concerning the same issue. Careful consideration of every notion is necessary if a binding and amicable resolution is to be arrived at. This paper will look at such an instance. The situation used is that of a manufacturing company, Orbit Limited, which is planning to mechanize some of its operations. This step will lead to the loss of jobs by hundreds of workers. As a result, a major conflict arises. Some are in support of the step while others are strongly opposed to it.
The Conflict at Orbit Limited
In the case of Orbit Limited, it is hard to determine whether those opposing the move to mechanize the company’s operations are doing that out of goodwill or they have vested interests. In most conflicts, there will always be those who are right and those who are wrong. The challenge is that at the time of the conflict, everyone is normally convinced that his or her stance is the best. In this case, the Managing Director has a hard time trying to clarify the benefits of the move. However, it would also be prudent if the manager allows those who are opposing the move to present their views.
Effect Of Use Of Power In Conflict Resolution
The situation in Orbit Limited is a fragile one and should the Managing Director try to ignore other controversial ideas, an even more, serious conflict is imminent. The deadliest mistake that the Managing Director would do is to use his or her powers to decide on the most appropriate course of action. This will only portray his incompetence as a leader and may strike up a revolution against him. The best decision in this circumstance is to provide room for constructive controversy. Although the two parties disagree, there is a possibility that they can discuss this issue and arrive at a solution that will partly fulfill the interests of all of them.
Use Of Constructive Controversy
The probability that Orbit Limited will finally agree on a single resolution is high if everybody involved gives room for negotiations. Negotiations help to clarify any equivocal parts of a disagreement (Littlejohn and Foss, 2008). This helps to vividly open the eyes of both parties to other alternatives that will satisfy everybody. For instance, it is possible that after constructive controversy, the parties involved here will settle on reducing the number of machines to be introduced and consequently retain a good number of employees. This is an ideal situation where constructive controversy can lead to better-informed decisions and amicable problem-solving.
Use Of Communication Theories
Communication theories can also serve as effective tools when dealing with such conflicts. In this section of this paper, the writer will assume the position of a consultant who will help to resolve the conflict using relevant communication theories. The most appropriate communication theory here is the Standpoint Theory. By using this theory, I will be in a position to convince everybody in the conflict that even though they may think they are right, several others who are viewing the problem from different vantage points may equally be right. This theory will mostly be directed to the topmost officials because even though they have power, those who are below them in rank have the capability of finding better solutions than them.
The second communication theory that will be of equal importance, in this case, is Rhetoric. Since my main aim would be to persuade the audience at orbit Limited, it would be helpful to use the three rhetorical proofs namely ethical, logical and emotional. The Rhetoric communication strategy goes hand in hand with the Face-Negotiation theory (Miller, 2005). When making the speech in a bid to solve the conflict, I would wear a facial expression that would appeal to the audience and achieve the sole purpose of convincing them.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it can be seen from the above discussion that conflicting ideas in any type of organization are inevitable. It is also clear that the best way to solve any agreement is by listening to both sides of the story. Moreover, a proper solution should encompass the interests of all the conflicting parties. Finally, it can be inferred from the foregoing that communication theories are important tools in solving conflicts.
Reference List
- Littlejohn, S.W. and Foss, K.A. (2008). Theories of human communication. Belmont, CA: Thomson Wadsworth.
- Miller, K. (2005). Communication theories: Perspectives, processes, and contexts. Boston, MA: McGraw-Hill Higher Education.