Leadership Styles And Conflict Management

Abstract

The leadership style that a leader chooses to use has a substantial influence on the way in which they make decisions, communicate expectations to followers, motivate followers, and develop a working environment.  In other words, the manner in which an individual leads other is an indication of the leadership style they use. It is a reflection of the views, interests, and attitudes of the leader on how an individual may effectively influence and lead other individuals. Leadership may take on many different forms, and each of these styles has the ability to have an impact on the dynamics, productivity, and culture of an organization or group in a number of different ways. Conflict may seem like a problem when it happens, but it really presents an opportunity for growth and a great way for groups or individuals to open up to one another. Nevertheless, conflict management must be used when disagreement impacts production and sparks other disagreements. When discussing conflict management, the goal of minimizing or eliminating conflict in whatever form is considered. "The goal of conflict management is to improve learning within an organization by minimizing the negative outcomes of conflict and promoting the positive outcomes of conflict," Rahim (2002) points out. Organizations and individuals may profit from conflict at different levels and types that are acceptable to them; this is the purpose of conflict management. Conflict management may not always include resolving disputes.