Thomas Killmann Conflict Mode
Understanding
The Thomas Kilmann Conflict Mode Instrument has 5 categories to it. The 5 categories are: Competing, Collaboration, Compromising, Avoiding and Accommodating. One does not necessarily need to fall into one category. In fact, it is normal to be in between the categories. The Thomas Kilmann Conflict Mode Instrument is useful to see how each team member deals with conflicts. It is also a good way to show the working styles of each team member. Being able to know the working styles and conflict resolution methods of each team member is useful should conflict arise within the team members. In an event of a conflict, team members would have a better idea on how to deal with it as they already have an idea on how a person works and deals with conflict. This would minimize as much miscommunication as possible.
Application
The Thomas Kilmann Conflict Mode Instrument allowed me to gain insight to how my team members view and handle conflict. Most of my team members fell into the category of collaboration and accommodating. This made me feel more assured as through this activity I found that my teammates and I have similar ways of dealing with conflict. As it was the first time that most of us worked together, I was worried that I would not get along with my teammates. I was unsure how I should break the ice between my teammates and I and I was glad that these tools were available to help me in that aspect. These tools helped my team and I transition from the forming stage easily to the norming stage.
Values and Challenges
A good aspect about this model is that it allows team members to better understand how each other manage and react to conflict. This would make conflict resolution easier as there is already a basic understanding of each other. Furthermore, this would allow team members to see who share similar characteristics. This can also allow the team to effectively create the group dynamics.
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However, same with the MBTI Test, this test may not be accurate as a person's character cannot be determined by only the way they deal with conflict. This may lead to misunderstandings if not careful.