*PICK ONE* Scroll to the bottom of the page and pick one of the five results after taking the test below.
We each have our own way of dealing with conflict. The techniques we use are based on many variables such as our basic underlying temperament, our personality, our environment and where we are in our professional career. However, by and large there are five major styles of conflict management techniques. In order to address conflict we draw from a collaborating, competing, avoiding, accommodating or compromising style of management.
None of these strategies is superior in and of itself. How effective they are depends on the context they are used in.
Each statement below provides a strategy for dealing with a conflict. Rate each statement on a scale of 1 to 4 indicating how likely you are to use this strategy.
1 - Rarely 2 - Sometimes 3 - Often 4 - Always
Be sure to answer the questions indicating how you actually behave rather than how you think you should behave.
1. I explore issues with others so as to find solutions that meet everyone’s needs . (___)
2. I try to negotiate and adopt a give-and-take approach to problem situations. (___)
3. I try to meet the expectations of others. (___)
4. I would argue my case and insist on the merits of my point of view. (___)
5. When there is a disagreement, I gather as much information as I can and keep the lines of communication 0pen. (___)
6. When I find myself in an argument, I usually say very little and try to leave as soon as possible. (___)
7. I try to see conflicts from both sides. What I need? What does the other person need? What are the issues involved.(___)
8. I prefer to compromise when solving problems and just move on. (___)
9. I find conflicts challenging and exhilarating and enjoy the battle of wits that usually follows. (___)
10. Being at odds with other people makes me feel uncomfortable and anxious. (___)
11. I try to accommodate the wishes of my friends and family. (___)
12. I can figure out what needs to be done and I am usually right. (___)
13. To break deadlocks, i would meet people halfway. (___)
14. I may not get what I want but it’s a small price to pay for keeping the peace. (___)
15. I avoid hard feelings by keeping my disagreements with others to myself. (___)
How to score your survey.
As stated the 15 statements correspond to the five conflict resolution styles. To find your most preferred style, total the points in the respective categories. The one with the highest score would indicate your most commonly used strategy. The one with the lowest score would indicate your least preferred strategy. However, if you are a leader who must deal with conflict on a regular basis you may find your style to be a blend of styles.
Collaborating 1) 5) 7)
Competing 4) 9) 12)
Avoiding 6) 10) 15)
Accommodating 3) 11) 14)
Compromising 2) 8 ) 13)
*PICK ONE*
