Conflict resolution at Rotary

Jason Hudnell of National Park Community College spoke to Scenic 7 Rotarians about conflict resolution last week. Hudnell is the assistant director of technology on the college campus.
He grew up in Hot Springs, went to Lakeside School and Ouachita Baptist University.
Hudnell talked to Rotarians about resolving conflict in the workplace. Gee, if only he had given this talk to my last employer I would still have a job.
Hudnell spoke of the inevitability of conflict, where there are people there is conflict, it is human nature. But, if you remove the conflict, therefore the people, there is no productivity.
Of course, the best way to proceed is to prevent conflict before it happens. Hudnell said paychecks are not the motivator for employees to do a good job, the chief reward is recognition. Recognition for specific acts. He encouraged Rotarians to catch their co-workers doing something good and then praising them for their actions. It also helps to apply the positive action to the big picture in relation to the job. He said specific praise encourages a repeat of the good behavior.
Talk face to face with your employees. E-mail is not the place for praise or criticism. Firing someone by cell phone message without attempting conflict resolution is not professional.
An important positive in the workplace is to encourage freedom of expression. Never assume or finish anyone’s sentences for them. Follow-up on requests. Don’t just say I’ll check into something. Do it and get back with the person.
Thorough evaluations are a must. Don’t just highlight negatives. Stress good as well as negative. Be specific. Look for avenues of growth. Set clear and measurable goals.
There is no room in the workplace for a rumor mill. Check your facts. Quickly counter false rumors. There are two sides to every story. Don’t get involved with rumors.
Once a conflict arises there are simple steps to defuse the situation. Validate everyone’s point of view with statements like "I see your point," "I don’t agree but I see your point," "I see where you are coming from," and "if I were in your shoes I might feel that way."
Only deal with what is being said. Do not bring in unrelated information.
Finally, propose a compromise. It is positive to offer to negotiate and brainstorm together to resolve the conflict.
These few simple steps allow retreat with dignity, focus on common ground and prepare for implementation of a plan.
The Rotary Club of Scenic 7 meets today at noon. The guest speaker today is Tana Neathery of Head to Toe Salon. The club meets at noon at the Boys and Girls Club. Bring a brown bag lunch at 11:30 and enjoy a quick meal with Rotarians before the meeting begins.