Fixing conflict in the workplace

Video 1

Watch the first part of the video (00:00-04:19). Would the speaker agree with the following
statements or not?

1. Conflict at the workplace is usually the result of differences between people.

2. Conflict is quite similar in any type of organisation.
3. To truly resolve conflict, it is necessary to get to the bottom of the matter.
4. Amy and Bill’s conflict was mostly due to bad communication between the two of
them.
5. Most conflicts actually have very simple solutions.

Video 2

In the next part of the video, the conflict expert mentions five steps (below). In what order do
you think they should be taken? Watch the second part of the video (04:20-10:48) and check.

o Make sure the conflict isn’t directly related to one individual.

o Find employees that can support you to make the necessary changes.
o Ensure there is an alignment of goals in the organisation.
o Talk to the staff, addressing them with adequate questions.
o Teach new techniques and habits to deal with the negative aspects of any future
conflict.

Video 3

Watch the final part of the video (10:49 – 15:44). Complete the sentences below with a word
or short phrase.

1. Liz explains that our brain mistakenly perceives some feelings as if we were in
_______________.
2. She says that even very ______________ can be interpreted wrongly in a conflict.
3. She asks a person in a conflict whether they believe the other person is
_________________ in essence.
4. By trying to understand why someone did something, we may start feeling
____________________ for them.
5. Elephant cards are used to bring up a topic that is important, but rather
_________________ to discuss.
6. Playing the card makes it clear to everyone the ________________ of the matter.
7. She finishes by saying that taking these steps requires a lot of bravery and
__________________.
Vocabulary activity