Deirdre Gallagher Discusses Workplace Conflict Resolution on “Breakfast with Bridgett”

Deirdre Gallagher, a lead facilitator at JAMS Pathways, appeared on Breakfast with Bridgett to discuss the growing need for conflict resolution in the workplace. JAMS Pathways, a leader in private dispute resolution, focuses on early-stage conflict intervention, helping organizations address issues before they escalate. Gallagher emphasized that workplace conflicts, if left unresolved, can lead to serious disruptions in productivity and morale. Through customized approaches, JAMS Pathways aims to equip teams with tools to navigate conflicts and move forward with their work more effectively.

Addressing Workplace Conflicts Early

In her interview, Gallagher outlined how JAMS Pathways focuses on early intervention, aiming to resolve conflicts at their root before they result in significant disruptions. As she explained, conflict often arises from misunderstandings and unresolved tensions, and without proper skills, these issues can spiral. Gallagher shared that JAMS Pathways helps organizations by intervening at the earliest possible stage of conflict: “It’s when kind of misunderstandings are brewing, conflict is maybe bubbling, but it hasn’t erupted, and people are trying to navigate what to do about that.”

This proactive approach allows organizations to stay on course with their core missions, avoiding the time-consuming and resource-draining effects of unmanaged conflict. By providing tailored strategies and skills, JAMS Pathways aims to help entities get back to what really matters—their work.

Key Trends in Conflict

Gallagher identified several ongoing trends contributing to workplace conflict in the current environment. Many of these conflicts are the result of societal changes, such as the shift in how and where people work. As Gallagher noted, employees are adapting to new work models and expectations, which can create feelings of uncertainty. She stated, “We are responding to this real kind of revolution in how we work. And that can be unsettling for folks who are wondering, where do I fit in?”

In addition to conflicts arising from changes in the workplace structure, Gallagher emphasized the growing tensions around inclusion and the importance of seeing that all voices are heard in decision-making processes.

“We’re also seeing conflicts around inclusion. Whose voices are prioritized? How are they prioritized? What is the forum to make those voices heard?”

Gallagher explained. This issue, she noted, is particularly relevant as organizations strive to create more inclusive and equitable workplaces.

Another significant trend involves psychological safety—employees need to feel secure when raising concerns about workplace issues. As Gallagher highlighted, fostering an environment where employees feel they have a safe space to express their concerns is critical to resolving conflicts before they escalate.

Practical Tools for Managing Conflict

During the conversation, Gallagher provided valuable tips for employees and managers on how to approach and manage workplace conflict. Communication, she explained, is key to resolving most disputes, but it requires thoughtfulness and skill. Gallagher offered several practical strategies:

• Replace judgment with curiosity: Gallagher advised that instead of making assumptions, employees should ask themselves, “What don’t I know?” She recommended using the phrase, “Tell me more about that,” to encourage a more open and constructive dialogue.
• Listen to understand, not to respond: One of the most effective ways to resolve conflict is to truly listen to the other person’s perspective. “It sounds pretty simple, yet it requires us to turn off the noise that’s inside our head and clear space to hear a different perspective,” she shared.
• Separate people from the problem: Gallagher suggested shifting the focus from personal attacks to the actual issue at hand. This allows people to approach the conflict collaboratively, rather than antagonistically.

These simple yet powerful tools may help prevent conflict from escalating and enable employees to engage in more productive conversations.

Leadership’s Role in Conflict Resolution

Gallagher also discussed the important role leaders play in managing conflict within their teams. Leaders, she noted, must model the behavior they want to see, especially during challenging conversations. By doing so, they set the tone for how conflict is handled across the organization.

Additionally, Gallagher encouraged leaders to plan ahead for difficult conversations by anticipating potential conflicts. “What we mean by that is to plan for conflict, plan for difficult conversations, and go through it and think about what is it that is really important to me here? What are my concerns?” she explained. This type of preparation helps create a more constructive environment where employees feel comfortable expressing their concerns and working toward solutions.

Finally, Gallagher reminded leaders that seeking outside help, such as conflict resolution professionals, is not a sign of weakness but rather a proactive step toward maintaining a healthy workplace. Bringing in external professionals can assist organizations in navigating particularly challenging conflicts and ensuring that all voices are heard.

Deirdre Gallagher’s appearance on Breakfast with Bridgett highlighted the increasing need for early conflict resolution in today’s workplaces. From addressing issues of inclusion to managing stressors related to changes in work environments, Gallagher offered practical insights and tools to help organizations resolve conflicts effectively. Her advice on communication, leadership, and early intervention is invaluable for companies looking to foster more inclusive and productive workspaces.

To learn more about JAMS Pathways and the services they provide, visit JAMS Pathways.