14.3 Conflict Resolution and Team Building

Stage managers must be adept at handling conflicts and fostering teamwork. From recognizing tension to employing active listening, assertive communication, and conflict resolution strategies, these skills are crucial for maintaining a harmonious production environment.

Team building is equally vital. By promoting open communication, defining roles clearly, and celebrating achievements, stage managers can create a cohesive unit. Activities like ice-breakers and problem-solving exercises further strengthen team bonds and improve collaboration.

Conflict Resolution in Stage Management

Signs of potential team conflicts

Top images from around the web for Signs of potential team conflicts

• 

  4.2 Five Models for Understanding Team Dynamics – Technical Writing Essentials View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Conflict Management Styles | Organizational Behavior and Human Relations View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Conflict Within Teams | Principles of Management View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  4.2 Five Models for Understanding Team Dynamics – Technical Writing Essentials View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Conflict Management Styles | Organizational Behavior and Human Relations View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 3

Top images from around the web for Signs of potential team conflicts

• 

  4.2 Five Models for Understanding Team Dynamics – Technical Writing Essentials View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Conflict Management Styles | Organizational Behavior and Human Relations View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Conflict Within Teams | Principles of Management View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  4.2 Five Models for Understanding Team Dynamics – Technical Writing Essentials View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Conflict Management Styles | Organizational Behavior and Human Relations View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 3

• Interpersonal tension characterized by hostile or passive-aggressive communication, avoidance or withdrawal from interactions, and lack of cooperation or unwillingness to compromise
• Divergent goals or priorities leading to disagreements about artistic vision or technical aspects (set design, lighting), conflicting schedules or deadlines, and competition for resources (budget) or recognition
• Breakdown in communication resulting in misunderstandings or miscommunications, lack of transparency or information sharing, and failure to address concerns or provide feedback

Techniques for conflict resolution

• Active listening involves paying attention to verbal and nonverbal cues, paraphrasing and reflecting back to ensure understanding, and validating emotions while focusing on the issues at hand
• Assertive communication requires expressing needs and concerns clearly and directly, using "I" statements to take ownership of feelings, and avoiding blaming or attacking language
• Conflict resolution strategies include identifying common ground and shared goals, brainstorming and evaluating potential solutions, and negotiating and compromising to reach mutually beneficial outcomes

Team Building in Stage Management

Strategies for team collaboration

• Foster open communication by encouraging regular check-ins and feedback sessions, creating safe spaces for expressing ideas and concerns, and modeling active listening and respectful dialogue
• Establish clear roles and expectations through defining responsibilities and decision-making processes, setting realistic goals and deadlines, and communicating changes or updates promptly
• Recognize and celebrate achievements by acknowledging individual and team successes (opening night), expressing appreciation for effort and dedication, and providing opportunities for growth and development

Activities for team cohesion

• Ice-breakers and trust-building exercises encourage self-disclosure and personal connection, foster a sense of psychological safety and support, and highlight shared experiences and values
• Problem-solving and decision-making simulations engage the team in role-playing or case study analysis, practice collaborative problem-solving and critical thinking, and debrief and reflect on lessons learned and best practices
• Social and recreational activities such as organizing informal gatherings or outings (cast parties), promote work-life balance and personal well-being, and strengthen interpersonal relationships and team morale