Relationships and Results

All of us in the FM business are aware of the role conflict plays in our daily lives. We never have enough money or people to get the job done, priorities keep shifting, and ambiguity reigns supreme. In that type of environment conflict is inevitable. If you spend your time trying to avoid it, then you are spending your time avoiding your responsibilities. In fact, some might say that conflict is one of the most powerful tools in your toolbox. How often do you reach for it?

I am not suggesting that you create conflict. I am suggesting that you take advantage of it when it presents itself. Conflict is always an opportunity for open and honest dialogue. It allows us to demonstrate our respect for each other in the way we act, always being respectful and inclusive, with the courage to be direct when needed. Relationship management is key to conflict resolution. Good relationships foster open and candid talk, which leads to right decisions. Right decisions lead to good results.