This module is an opportunity for you to increase self-awareness and reflect on how you respond to workplace conflict.

Answering the following questions will help you determine the relevancy of this module for you at this time.

If you answer NO to one of these questions, then you are likely to find this module pertinent.
If you answer Yes to these questions, consider a quick scan of this module before moving directly to the next unit: Defining Resources.

  • What is your response to difficult conversations with a colleague?
  • Do you lean into or avoid challenging dynamics in the workplace?
  • Have you effectively resolved conflict between coworkers?
  • Are you comfortable initiating a conversation to resolve a conflict at work?

Learning Outcomes

At the end of this module, you should be able to:

  • Identify five modes of behaviour that people may exhibit in conflict.
  • Reflect on how you react and respond to workplace conflict.

Learning Activities

  • Complete the scenario analysis.
  • Review the Summary activity to complete the module.

Introduction

Workplace conflict can arise for various reasons, including personal beliefs, unclear roles, cultural expectations or personality differences.

Conflict often carries negative associations because it can be uncomfortable and emotionally charged, especially when high stakes are involved. But what if we reframed conflict as a form of human interaction aimed at achieving better understanding and agreements? (Malhotra, 2017, 2:00). 

Successful conflict resolution in the workplace requires:

  • Professionalism
  • Strong communication, such as transparency, open-ended questions and radical listening
  • Transferable skills like problem-solving, optimism, and critical thinking
  • Awareness of nonverbal and paraverbal communication 

This module includes:

  • A brief overview of the TKI Conflict Model
  • Scenario-based analysis
  • Effective questions and responses
  • Mindset and essential skills for resolution

Next, continue on to What Triggers Workplace Conflict?

Last modified: Tuesday, 10 June 2025, 2:25 PM