Whats So Important about Having a Conflict Management Process?
You’ve probably heard the saying “the bone is strongest where the break heals” (that is actually medically true!). The same applies to relationships, and this may, if fact, give family firms a competitive edge. Unresolved conflicts are harmful and put the family and business at risk. Family companies are emotional systems that are more likely to have conflicts. Families and businesses that have developed effective ways of managing conflict are those most likely to survive and thrive. Several studies on marriage and families suggest that the largest number of marriages fail because of lack of conflict regulation techniques. In my work with families in business, I have observed that those who do well are those who have found ways to regulate and appreciate differences of opinion even if potentially explosive. They enjoy a competitive advantage, as they are better able to work together, trust each other, and react faster to the changing economic environment. It also leads to better, wiser
