Travelling sometimes can become difficult and there can be situations that arise that need to be solved. Unfortunately things might not always go the way that you want so it is good to know the different ways that you can get your way or even dissolve a tense situation in case you do something culturally insensitive.
When it comes to conflict resolution there are five main types:
- Collaborating
- Compromising
- Accommodating
- Avoiding
- Forcing
Each one does something a little different and works in different situations. To determine what will one will work for you in your situation you will have to read the person you are dealing with.
Collaborating ("Two heads are better than one")
What? Work with the person you are having the problem with to find a solution that works to your advantage.
How? Identify all the main issues, generate options, look at a solution while asserting your view that meets as many of the concerns as possible, and then get mutual agreement.
Why? The conflict is natural and caused by tension in a relationship or contrasting viewpoint. Use this if there is an option that works for both sides, you care strongly about the issue, or you want to get your feelings out so there won't be issues later.
No Go: If you need a quick decision or don't have strong feelings for the main issue
Example: I understand the pool is closed but I came here for the pool. What is the closest pool I can you that you will cover the cost for? If there is no other pool, how can we make my stay better? I'd really like breakfast included with my stay.
Compromising ("Lets meet half way")
What? Bargain to find a solution where no one wins but an middle ground is found.
How? The conflict is a mutual issue that is best solved through cooperation and compromise.
Why? A quick solution is needed so you both can win, you both want the same thing but it can be shared, could be solved by a coin flip, or you can't satisfy both options but can agree on a solution
No Go: If it is possible to work harder to find a solution that works for everyone.
Example: I'll give up my seat for a later flight if I get a travel credit for a future flight
Accommodating ("Have it your way")
What? You give into the other person's point of view. Normally because you don't care enough or feel it's no big deal
How? Just agree and support the person
Why? The other person cares more about the issue then you do or you were wrong
No Go: Could be dangerous or cost you
Example: I understand that you are out of the car that I prebooked, I'll take just take the next available model
Avoiding ("Lets do this later")
What? Something you don't want to have to deal with
How? Delay the solution, avoid giving an answer, ignore a persons contact
Why? You need time to cool down, could be dangerous and you don't want to deal with it, you don't care about the problem
No Go: Don't want to make someone angry, don't like dealing with conflict, scared to speak up
Example: My meal is fine.
Forcing ("My way or the highway")
What? You feel that there is only one way - your way
How? Convince the person why your way is the best way as pressure and coercion is necessary
Why? A quick outcome is needed, you know you are right, trusting your gut
No Go: If you don't need to piss the person off, you want an open conversation
Example: The air conditioning unit in my room is broken. If maintenance cannot fix it then I'm going to need a new room.
