Case study:
Resolving group conflict and re-establishing good working relationships
Resolving group conflict and re-establishing good working relationships
Client: Charity
Context: The charity was experiencing a difficult time due to a conflict involving staff and Board members. The charity was at risk of no longer being able to operate, which would have a major impact on people needing their services.
Challenge: The conflict had been going on for some time and communication and trust had been affected.
Our approach: This project was done in collaboration with Amanda Heenan of Arc of Inclusion, an expert in equality, diversity and inclusion.
We used a two-step process:
- In-depth individual conversations with everyone involved to allow them to share their perspectives and concerns and feel listened to.
We used light-touch conflict coaching, inviting people to reflect on the conflict and what they needed to be able to move forward. - Based on the insights from these conversations, we designed and facilitated a group mediation session focused on reaching a shared understanding and agreeing a productive way forward.
We created a safe space for participants to share what is important to them and explore common ground. We guided participants through substantive issues.
The entire process was carried out online using zoom.
Outcome: The meditation session resulted in a thoughtful discussion where participants expressed the impact the conflict had on them as well as their appreciative feelings for their colleagues.
Impact: The mediation also included a visioning exercise to help participants revive their joint vision and purpose. This allowed participants to move on from the conflict and they collaboratively agreed practical follow-up actions to further strengthen their working relationships. Thanks to this the charity is able to continue providing their much-needed service to their clients.
Follow-on commission: We were subsequently commissioned to design and facilitate a strategy workshop for the charity to refresh their values and set their strategic priorities for the year ahead.