Communication Problem
During the 2020 presidential debate between Presidents Joe Biden and Donald Trump. My best friend and I had a communication challenge that lead to an interpersonal conflict. My best friend was a huge supporter of President Joe Biden while I was a supporter of President Donald Trump. During the debate, we had a constructive discussion concerning different responses of the candidates towards the posed questions. After a few misunderstandings, we both got emotional and stopped listening to each other, started blaming and judging each other. This issue made my best friend furiously storm out of my house, and never answer my calls for about one week. This was a major communication problem that was caused by conflicting ideas and preferences.
How the Communication Problem was Resolved?
Communication problems can arise due to different perspectives, opinions, and preferences. Most of the problems begin with a lack of understanding and understanding of how to engage in effective communication with people with different opinions. The problem between my friend and I solved the problem by listening to each other without interjecting, rephrasing answers, requesting for validation of what we think is meant, and asking descriptive enquiries. We also started phrasing our answers with “I feel otherwise about this and that” or “My opinion is different because I think that…” or “Do you think this is a suitable opinion?” The end situation is that we began doing better at communicating.
How the Problem Could Present Itself in a Business Scenario
This problem can present itself in a business scenario especially in a team of members with different opinions and perspectives. Without effective communication methods conflicts are likely to occur leading to an unsuccessful team project. Poor communication leads to conflicts and misunderstandings (Harris & Sherblom, 2018). Considering my own experiences, the resolutions for solving this communication issue should include being nonjudgmental, avoiding overreaction, respecting each other’s opinion, perspectives and beliefs, using non-threatening nonverbal, offering flexibility and personal options, and allowing time for discussions.
Reference
Harris, T. E., & Sherblom, J. C. (2018). Small group and team communication (Fifth Edition). New York: Waveland Press.
