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Case Study 5 Questions

1. Consider the three different types of conflict that were discussed in both the book and in lecture. For each of these three types, describe whether or not Thomas and John are experiencing that particular type of conflict.

The three different types of conflict that were discussed in both the book and in lecture included: relationship conflict, value conflict and relationship conflict. From the case study, it can be discovered that Thomas Grant and John Davis are experiencing relationship conflict and task conflict. Relationship conflict arises when there are differences in style, personality, preferences, etc. There is a poor work relationship between John Grant and Davis that is why Davis goes ahead to write emails to the Company’s division vice president. There is also a simmering tension between Grant and Davis. The conflict arises from how to undertake certain tasks and work assignments. It can also be discovered that the conflict arises from personality differences between the two colleagues. It also seems evident from the case study that there is a task conflict between Grant and Davis. The issues that are causing task conflict are mainly related to assignments at work. The disputes arise from means of allocating and dividing some resources at work, differences of views and opinions relating to policies and procedures at work place, [especially with regard to communication.]. Conflicts between Davis and Grant can also be viewed in terms of how they differ in managing certain expectations at the workplace. They also differ in terms of how to judge and interpret certain facts. All these issues are the ones creating conflict between Davis and Grant.

2. If you were making a recommendation to Thomas, what type of conflict management strategy (of the five types discussed in class and in the book) would you suggest he try with John? Why would you make that suggestion?

I would recommend that Thomas adopt a collaborating conflict management strategy so as to solve conflict with John. I suggest this particular conflict management strategy because it will enable the two conflicting parties to integrate their ideas. This particular conflict management strategy will help John and Thomas to find the root cause of the conflict and come up with a creative solution that will be acceptable to both of them.

3. If you were making a recommendation to John, the manager, what type of conflict management strategy (of the 5 types discussed in class and in the book) would you suggest he try with Thomas? Why would you make that suggestion?

I would recommend to John to use a compromising conflict management strategy in order to resolve the conflict with Thomas. The reason why I am making this particular suggestion is because compromising strategy will assist John and Thomas to solve their conflicts by having each of them outline his opinions and views pertaining to the issue of contention. After each party has outlined his views and opinions, they will come together and establish a solution which if not agreeable, will be acceptable to them.[not sure what this means: agreeable to both of them?]

4. Based on the leadership types discussed in lecture and/or in the book, how would you describe John’s leadership? Identify at least one leadership style (though you can identify more than one), and explain why you believe that type(s) best describe John’s leadership.

Based on the leadership types discussed, I would describe John’s leadership to be autocratic and transactional leadership. This is because John wants to have control over Thomas who is working under him. When John is corrected, he does not want and he does not take into consideration the important suggestions from Thomas. [Not clear here-John does not want to be corrected by a subordinate? And so, doesn’t take Thomas’s suggestions or concerns seriously or with an open mind?] His leadership is transactional because he wants to punish Thomas by reporting him to the senior management.

5. If you were Thomas, facing the situation described in the case, what would you do next?

If I were Thomas, I would try all means possible to solve conflict between John and myself. [Should you give some specific examples of strategies you would use?] I would also put in place all relevant conflict management strategies. At the same time, I would write a detailed email to the Division Vice President responding to all the allegations leveled against me.

Reference

Huan, L. J., & Yazdanifard, R. (2012). The difference of conflict management styles and conflict resolution in workplace. Business & Entrepreneurship Journal, 1(1), 141-155.