5 Tips for Managing Group Conflict

Group work can be challenging, here are 5 tips to help make the experience a little easier. 

Tip #1: Be clear about what you want to accomplish.

Talk to your group members about what your tasks and goals are. Being specific about what outcome each member would like to see can also lead to a solid plan. By the end of the conversation all group members should agree on the goals. 

Tip #2: Listen carefully to your group members. 

If you’re not sure what other group members are thinking or feeling, try asking if there is anything you can do to help get them started, or if there are any resources you can supply.

Tip #3: Be flexible.

Be ready to compromise when making plans with teammates. Be prepared to meet at different times or take on different tasks. Remember that group members may have different schedules and priorities. If your group isn’t able to meet in person on a specific day, try meeting over video chat or on the phone. Use things like google docs, hangouts, or skype to collaborate.

Tip #4: Choose your battles. 

Know when to let go of an issue and move on. Ask yourself, how much will this issue matter when the assignment is finished? If you’re having trouble making a decision, give everyone in the group 5 minutes to express their view and then vote on it.

Tip #5: Ask for help. 

If you have attempted all of these strategies and the conflict hasn’t been resolved, look in your course outline to see if your instructor has any policies about group assignments. If there aren’t any guidelines, reach out to your instructor or TA as a group to discuss some strategies for improving the situation.

Five Tips Summary

Remember next time you face group conflict, try these five tips: 

• Be clear about what you want to accomplish
• Listen carefully to your group members
• Be flexible
• Choose your battles
• Ask for help 

Group assignments can be incredibly rewarding experiences. Each group will be different and have their own unique challenges, but these strategies should help your group work together towards success!

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