CONSTRUCTIVE CONFLICT IN TEAMWORK

Sandra Brsec Rolih ()
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Sandra Brsec Rolih: Finico Ltd. Marija Gorica, Republic of Croatia

Interdisciplinary Management Research, 2013, vol. 9, 105-113

Abstract: Conflict is a necessary part of teamwork. Without it, team synergy and creativity cannot be maximized. In fact, there would be no advantage to working together at all. Conflict can have both positive and negative outcomes. Negative outcomes from conflict that has not been properly managed can be very disruptive to teaming activities and possibly quite devastating to individual team members. The three most important principles behind the realization of the benefits of conflict are open communication, the respect of differences and involvement by all team members affected. Conflict expression is one of the most important and powerful tools for effective and productive teamwork. The reasons for encouraging conflict are many. During confl ict expression critical thinking is stimulated, innovation and creativity are sparked, group stagnation is minimized and healthy debate and discussion is energizing. How well conflict is managed will determine whether the positive or negative results are achieved. The key is to create an environment where diversity is viewed as an opportunity, rather than a threat. Learning to manage conflict effectively will enable teams to take advantage of the team’s diversity while still working together towards common organizational and personal goals.

Keywords: conflict; teamwork constructive conflict; destructive conflict; managing conflict (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: D74 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2013
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