Here's how you can navigate questions about conflict resolution experience in an interview.

In my previous role as a HR and Admin Manager, we were working on a high-stakes project with a deadline. One of my team members, who was responsible for a crucial part of the project, disagreed with the way I proposed for completing the task." It was my responsibility to ensure the project stayed on track while maintaining a collaborative and productive team environment. I had to address the conflict by scheduling a private meeting with the team member to discuss their concerns in a friendly setting. I listened to their points, which included their perspective on how a different approach might be more effective. I understood their viewpoint, I shared my rationale for the proposed methodology, emphasizing the project’s constraints and goals.

When asked about your conflict resolution experience in an interview, share specific examples. Describe a situation where a conflict arose, the steps you took to address it, and the positive outcome. For instance, "In my previous role, there was a disagreement between two team members that affected productivity. I facilitated a meeting where both parties could express their concerns. By actively listening and mediating, we found common ground and developed a solution that satisfied everyone. This improved team cohesion and performance." Highlighting such experiences demonstrates your practical skills and ability to handle conflicts effectively.

Much can be said with the least amount of words if you allow the person to speak openly. You can infer quite a bit in what is being shared. You determine insecurities, past grievances, personal offenses, and much more just by listening. Validating someone's perspective doesn't mean you agree but that you understand their investment and can liken a similar experience to gain common ground and credibility. This is restatement, of which is a powerful tool in conflict resolution and forward momentum. You can learn more about yourself doing this. Everyone wins!

Staying calm is the key to handling conflicts effectively. Master these techniques to remain composed during conflict and reach a positive resolution: 1. Take slow, deep breaths through your nose. Imagine filling your belly with air, hold for a beat, and slowly exhale through your mouth. Repeat a few times. This simple act calms your nervous system and clears your head. 2. Snag a mindfulness moment by pausing for 10-15 seconds to ask yourself, "what is the best way to respond in this moment?". This reground will prevent you from reacting in the moment. 3. Listen Actively: Pay close attention to what the other person is saying, both verbally and non-verbally. Try to understand their perspective, even if you disagree.

Being open to different styles of conflict resolution is important because every situation is different. There are spaces when I have been very directive in my approach considering the business impact of conflict. In other spaces where focus was on maintaining a relationship I have compromised on my asks as well. So no one size fits all.