Resolving conflict is not about winning or losing. Or even about finding a compromise.
Often despite “impossible odds”, Ken Cloke has facilitated successful conflict mediation around the world for almost four decades and has written numerous books on the subject. In this episode, we illuminate the true mission of mediation to resolve conflict. He shares a conflict resolution approach known as “the third ground” that belongs in any nonprofit leader’s toolkit.
Although it may not seem possible initially, Ken shares that a resolution can ALWAYS be reached. He speaks from deep experience. Thus, through the prism of his expertise, he offers principles and the power of asking the right questions that can uncover empathy, understanding, and yes, a satisfying resolution in which neither party has to lose for the other to gain.
Every single nonprofit leader can benefit from this frank conversation. Ken provides us with gems that can help all of us who navigate tough conversations and mutually opposing beliefs, in service to making the world a better place for us all.
Key Takeaways:
- In a conflict, how people feel is more important than what they want.
- The prime goal is to embrace differences and exchange views.
- To shift from a conversation about rights to values can illuminate compelling commonality.
- As leaders, there is an important belief to debunk: that someone must lose for anyone to win.
- What is a Conflict Revolution and what does it look like?
About Ken:
Ken Cloke is a world-recognized mediator, dialogue facilitator, conflict resolution systems designer, teacher, trainer, author and public speaker. He has been a pioneer and leader in the field of mediation and conflict resolution for the last 37 years.
He is co-founder of Mediators Beyond Borders, based in Washington D.C. The organization supports individuals, organizations, communities and governments around the world in building conflict resolution capacity and conflict literacy, focusing on under-served communities.
Links
- Ken Cloke Website
- Resolving Organizational Conflicts: A Course on Mediation & Systems Design by Kenneth Cloke and Joan Goldsmith
- Mediating Dangerously: The Frontiers of Conflict Resolution by Kennth Cloke
- Beyond Intractability Website
- The Art of Gathering: How We Meet and Why It Matters
- Nonprofit Leadership Lab
- Joan Garry’s Guide to Nonprofit Leadership – 2nd Edition by Joan Garry
- FREE WORKSHOP: Let’s Build the Nonprofit Board of Your Dreams!
- FREE WORKSHOP: The 5 Practices of Outstanding Nonprofit Leaders
- Music by Jukebox the Ghost
- Voiceover Work by Cindy Cap Solutions
Disclosure of Material Connection: Some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”