Conflict with colleague
I am currently in the process of being in a conflict with my School Age Manager. I am her superior, but I do not use my power to accomplish goals. Apparently, she and I have very views of the term "showcase ready". I continue to tell her that before she leaves the building to go on her break (she works a split), that the School Age program has to be picture perfect and tour ready. We have tours daily with parents looking for before and after school care for their children. We need to be confident in selling our program.
One strategy that I feel would make me a more effective communicator is to model for my School Age Manager. Being respectful and going into the program and demonstrate to my School Age Manager exactly what my expectations are can be extremely effective. The second strategy I could use is to increase my understanding of exactly what my School Age Manager is trying to convey. Communicating with her and respecting her position in the program can also assist with conflict resolution. It is critical to try and understand both sides of the conflict and come to an agreement. Nonviolent communication keeps us in touch with the natural state of compassion. I will continue to work on and with my School Age manager and encourage her to buy into me and the belief of best practice for our families, both enrolled and perspective families. I told her that I know I am over the top, and a little extreme when it comes to cleaning and organizing, and I can identify that within myself. My School Age Manager also has identified with her faults of not paying attention to detail and ensuring that our program is the best that it can be!
Hi Theresa - I believe many conflicts arise due to different perceptions. Your perception of the program being "showcase ready" obviously differ from the School Age Manager's perception. Modeling for her your perception of "showcase ready" is a good way to convey your expectations. I think it is healthly, positive, and productive that the two of you have been able to self-reflect on this matter and have communicated both of your desires for the program to be the best it can be.
ReplyDeleteIt sounds like you have some very good ideas about how to resolve this conflict. I know it is easier said than done but you have a good list of things that you can try. Modeling is excellent. I am a believer in that. A lot of people need to see how it should be done or hear what should be said before you just tell them to do something. I hope everything works out!
ReplyDeleteI like the idea of modeling. She may be a visual learner. This maybe where the miscommunication and conflict is stemming from. It also sounds that you have already begun to view it from her perspective. I hope these strategies are successful.
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