Conflict Resolution

Conflict-Resolution Techniques. Some amount of conflict will always be present in
the workplace. The fact that it exists is not necessarily an unhealthy thing. When it is
resolved quickly and effectively, it can lead to personal and professional growth. In many
cases, effective conflict resolution can make the difference between positive and negative
outcomes. The “Leader’s 5-Step Guide to Conflict Resolution”41 recommends five steps
in the conflict-resolution process.

1. Affirm the relationship. I am here because I value your friendship more than
I value the discomfort of confronting my hurt feelings.
2. Seek to understand. Covey’s thoughts on listening are worth their weight in gold,
teaching one to seek the other person’s feelings, thoughts, and perspectives first.
3. Seek to be understood. After understanding, share one’s feelings, thoughts, and
perspectives, not in an attacking mode but in an effort for the other party to see
one’s views.
4. Own responsibility by apologizing. Seek to see where any, if not all, of the
conflict is one’s responsibility, learning to respond differently in the future. A
genuine apology not only affirms the relationship but can do wonders in releasing
hurt feelings.
5. Seek agreement. After both parties have apologized, accepting responsibility for
their parts in the conflict, seeking agreement means reuniting on the common
vision that drew both sides together in the first place, agreeing that the cause is
bigger than the conflict is for both parties.

One-on-One Resolution. Rarely do two parties involved in the conflict have the skills to
dig themselves out of the pit they find themselves in. That requires help from a coach
such as an HR professional. The coach will facilitate one-on-one discussions to help the
two people identify what they want and why it is important for the other party to also
get what they want. Identifying something that will be satisfactory to each party is what
the coaching process is designed to accomplish.

Sharam Kohan
Sharam Kohan

Sharam Kohan: Biography

Sharam Kohan is a seasoned professional with an extensive background in law, human relations, and organizational leadership. Currently a degree candidate for an LLM at UC Berkeley Law, Sharam brings a unique blend of legal education, hands-on experience, and a deep commitment to social justice and human rights.

With a career that spans diverse sectors, Sharam's expertise extends far beyond the classroom. He has served as a Human Relations Commissioner, contributing his leadership to Alameda County’s Human Relations Commission, where he worked on initiatives to improve community relations and promote equity. His dedication to social change is also evident in his philanthropic efforts as a donor to organizations like FACES SF, which provides vital resources and support to the Bay Area’s underserved communities.

An advocate for labor and employment rights, Sharam holds a specialization in Employment Law from Temple University School of Law, which has furthered his ability to navigate complex legal frameworks. His professional journey includes leadership roles across human resources and operations, where he has honed his ability to manage teams, shape organizational culture, and implement effective strategies that drive success. He also holds SHRM certification, further solidifying his expertise in human resources management.

As a writer and thought leader, Sharam has authored multiple works that delve into complex philosophical and legal topics. His books, Judgment, a Priori Itself and Sartre’s Conception of Freedom, explore the intersections of law, philosophy, and human freedom, blending his academic background with a passion for intellectual inquiry. These works have garnered attention for their thoughtful analysis and exploration of complex ideas, establishing Sharam as a respected voice in both legal and philosophical circles.

Though not a traditional legal scholar, Sharam’s interdisciplinary approach to understanding law and society has made him a sought-after commentator on topics ranging from legal theory to organizational dynamics. His writing can be found on various platforms, including his blog at Harvard, where he shares insights on law, politics, and social issues.

Sharam Kohan is a dynamic and forward-thinking professional with the knowledge, experience, and passion to contribute meaningfully to the legal, social, and business landscapes.

For more on Sharam Kohan’s work, visit his blog at archive.blogs.harvard.edu/kohan and his author pages on Amazon, including Judgment, a Priori Itself and Sartre's Conception of Freedom.

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