Where Conflict & Safety Intersect

SafeBuild Alliance Quarterly Meeting

As a recent member of SafeBuild Alliance, I had the opportunity to co-present with attorney Roger Lenneberg (Jordan Ramis) on how conflict can impact safety. There are usually two camps on conflict: (1) Avoid it and (2) Aggressively attack it. Roger and I believe there is another way. Conflict is not something to be avoided nor aggressively addressed, but embraced early with healthy attitudes and effective communication skills.  Good conflict addresses and resolves the issue while enriching the relationship.

Conflict gets exasperated when we take things personally, make assumptions, let it go unattended or react defensively. One of the more healthful (and effective) ways to address it is to seek to truly understand the other person's point of view (to the point that you could actually convincingly articulate their position). Additionally:

• Recognize that reasonable minds can differ.
• Check your assumptions.
• Address an issue early before has a chance to fester.
• Be clear about what you want, need and expect.
• Be accountable for your role.
• Assume good intent.
• Find common ground.
• Cultivate an environment that respects and encourages healthful dialogue

When we fail to have regular, robust and candid conversations, we put our relationships at risk (eroding trust, respect and patience for each other). When the relationships deteriorate we tend to be more distracted and less attentive to our colleagues' well-being. These subtle and not-so-subtle ailments can negatively impact your safety culture.

For the sake of your relationships, and your health, seek to embrace the kind of conversations that get to the heart of the matter and build your team!    Click here for full article.