When you solve a math problem you know there are multiple ways to work through the equation for an answer. Just like our school-day math homework, there are many different ways of achieving the same end goal in the office. With a variety of people and perspectives everyone has their own equation to solve problems. Lots of ideas. Limited space. There’s bound to be some conflict.
It’s important to remember that achieving the end goal….is the end goal. As a leader, you are charged with making sure your team is successful. A team with different personalities and viewpoints, while ultimately valuable in its diversity, can hinder success if there is no one to facilitate conflict and bridge differences. It is the task of the team leader to take the input of the different members’ viewpoints and act as a conductor to harmonize ideas for resolution.
“We don’t get harmony when everybody sings the same note. Only notes that are different can harmonize. The same is true with people.”
― Steve Goodier
The goal in resolving a divided office is not to coerce one group into an idea, but to establish a perspective that benefits everyone. Conflict isn’t inherently bad – it often leads to innovation – but it does need positive resolution. Viewpoints may differ, but a diverse group of people is vital for growth. Without conflict, diversity, and difference you will be hard pressed to spark true collaboration and success. When you welcome new equations and take an active role in mediating conflict and innovation, you will find that true success begins to take root.
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Justin Zuniga is CareerPlug’s sales and marketing intern.
