Making Conflict Work: Harnessing the Power of Disagreement

“This book is a necessity . . . Read it.” —Leymah Gbowee, 2011 Nobel Peace Prize laureate and Liberian peace activist
 
“Innovative and practical.” —Lawrence Susskind, cofounder, Program on Negotiation, Harvard Law School
 
Every workplace is a minefield of conflict, and all office tension is shaped by power. This book teaches you to identify the nature of a conflict, determine your power position relative to anyone opposing you, and to use the best strategy for achieving your goals. These strategies are equally effective for executives, managers and their direct reports, consultants and attorneys—anyone who has ever had a disagreement with someone in their organization. Packed with helpful self-assessment exercises and action plans, Making Conflict Work gives you the tools you need to achieve greater satisfaction and success.

“Navigating conflict effectively is an essential component of leadership. Making Conflict Work illustrates when to compromise and when to continue driving forward.” —Honorable David N. Dinkins, 106th mayor of the City of New York
 
“An excellent workbook-like guide.” —Booklist, starred review

PETER COLEMAN is a professor of psychology and education at Teachers College and the Earth Institute at Columbia University and the director of Columbia’s International Center for Cooperation and Conflict Resolution. He is also a New York State certified mediator and experienced consultant whose clients include IBM, Citibank, the United Nations, the World Bank, and the U.S. State Department.

ROBERT FERGUSON is a psychologist and executive coach who has provided consulting, conflict resolution, mediation, and leadership training to organizations including Credit Suisse USA, Merrill Lynch, Ahlstrom, Kennametal, KBI Biopharma, and Aegon.