Managing resistance and conflict Sample Clauses

Managing resistance and conflict. Resistance is a natural response to feelings of ‘loss, anxiety and struggle’ (Xxxxxx and Xxxxxx, 2000, p. 19). Change for many is synonymous with extra work, pressure and stress. Resistance should therefore be anticipated as a natural part of the change process. A major reason for the failure of change however is a lack of attention to the process of change. It is very important to think through the change process carefully in order to reduce the number of negative side effects. Remember too, resistance can be used to good effect; it gets you to think through your ideas and to ask yourself ‘are we on the right track?’ However, when intending to implement change one will almost certainly be confronted not only with resistance but also with some kind of conflict. The ability to handle conflict is a key factor in successful change management. Dealing with conflict can often create a sense of fear but it is important to remember however, that conflict, like resistance, is an inevitable part of implementing change and that one must therefore understand its source, show empathy where needed and have strategies to deal with it. When managed effectively, conflict and resistance, can be quite positive. As noted by Xxxx and Xxxxx: