Final answer:
Addressing a coworker's competitive conflict style involves careful communication, calmness, active listening, and seeking compromise. These approaches promote collaboration and help transform confrontational dynamics into cooperative ones. If necessary, involving a supervisor or HR might be the next step.
Step-by-step explanation:
Transforming Conflict into Collaboration
When dealing with a coworker who uses a competing style of conflict management, it's important to transform the dynamic into a collaborative one. Avoid aggressive confrontation as it tends to inflame the situation, and instead focus on methods that foster understanding and mutual respect. Firstly, choose your words carefully to prevent escalations and maintain a professional environment. Secondly, make an effort to stay calm and sincerely listen to your coworker's perspective to show respect for their opinions. This approach involves asking open-ended questions to better understand their stance and restating what was said to affirm their points and ensure clarity.
Focus on solving the problem collaboratively rather than assigning blame. Seeking compromise can be an effective way to meet in the middle and move forward with the project. If conflicts persist and cannot be resolved through these means, it may be necessary to involve a supervisor or HR department for additional support. Remember, conflict can lead to innovation and growth when handled constructively.