1. Keep the conversation on
point. When one or both parties starts talking in circles, you can summarize
their points and steer the conversation in a healthy direction.
2. Make sure the conversation is
not confrontational. You can do this by stressing the goal of the conversation
- to make sure both sides are happy with the resolution. Asking each
participant what it would take to resolve the issue is a good way to keep the
conversation productive.
3. You need to remain positive
and encouraging. The individuals going through the conflict are in the middle
of a stressful situation. They probably don't want to be there, and the meeting
can quickly go downhill if you cannot keep it positive.
4. Make sure emotions are kept in
check. Set ground rules that neither party can get angry or blame the other
party for what happened. Everyone is going to focus on the facts of what happened
and work together to find a resolution. You cannot properly mediate if people are angry or emotional. It is important that you keep both parties in
line.
5. Finally, realize that it is OK
for the parties to disagree as long as both acknowledge and understand why
there is a disagreement. A potential outcome may be to find mutual
understanding. Sometimes parties simply have to understand their differences.
Being a conflict mediator is tough. It is definitely one of the thankless jobs of a
chapter president.by Patrick Daley
thefraternityadvisor.com
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