Managing Conflict & the Negotiation Process Essay

Managing Conflict & the Negotiation Process - Essay Example In managing conflict, it is important to determine who are involved, what they think, andthe context or the environment of the conflict. One would best map out the conflict to determine its scope and all basic information so that one can match an effective response to it. Part of this is determining the options available and the costs and benefits accruing from them. Often, a great deal can be learned from similar experiences of the past which can also yield ideas about what things are likely to happen. Efforts must be made to look into who would be affected by the conflict especially those that are silent and have not yet become vocal. Disputes often times have histories which may explain the feelings of others on the issue. When people speak, they may be able to give hints on how the current situation can be resolved. At times, disputes may be related to others disputes and this deserves some attention as they may affect the outcome of the earlier conflict. As supposed survivors, we were faced with a common enemy [the possibility of not being able to survive] and so we were one. What each one of us were, was quickly forgotten as we had to be united to get us out of the problem. We had to work as a team and explore an uncharted territory. As time went on, thoughts were turned to our individual selves as dwindling supplies and security from the unknown stared us in the face. We had to think of strategies, yet have our personal needs met. In trying to communicate with each other, there was the trend wherein some members preferred to direct communication first to one's buddy in the group, then eventually to the emergent leader. In the process, the quiet one seemed not to be included with the team. Communication was bridged only with the emergent leader shifting back and forth between the non-talking parties. I can see that one needs to be alert, to be on top of their game, and agile enough to respond quickly and effectively to changes. Exercises like this can be very helpful for the mind. Where before, I had only myself to dictate how I moved, here, I was forced to act from a perspective wider and bigger than myself. It seemed that I had taken on a personality bigger than that of my old self. (2) Describe how the events that happened relate to our studies. I am amazed to see that the mix of different personalities and levels are counted critical to the success of the activity. First, we do not have the same experiences and the same capacity for understanding concepts involved in the exercise. Second, we didn't know each other that close until after the exercises. Third, we were forced to think quickly. A common problem bound us all: the need to survive. The mind maps had encouraged equal participation from each one of us. The game actually begins when we, as strangers, are left in a rough terrain. There is no opportunity for planning before the game begins. We scramble to gather whatever supplies we can grab. We trek across rugged terrain in search of a campsite. Exhausted, hungry and in the middle of no where, we work