The R.E.S.O.L.V.E Framework for Conflict Management

Most conflict at work isn’t about the issue.

It’s about how we handle it.

– Unspoken tension.
– Misread emails.
– Meetings that go sideways.

Left unchecked, conflict spreads fast.

It damages trust, slows progress, and kills morale.

But it doesn’t have to.

Here’s how to lead through conflict with clarity:

R – Recognize the Conflict
Get clear on the root cause.
Separate facts from feelings before reacting.

E – Engage with Empathy
Listen to understand, not just to reply.
Validate concerns—even if you disagree.

S – Separate People from the Problem
Avoid blame and assumptions.
Focus on behaviors, not personalities.

O – Open Up to Solutions
Look for shared outcomes.
Collaboration always beats competition.

L – Lead with Clear Communication
Clarify expectations and next steps.
Alignment prevents misinterpretation.

V – Validate and Follow Up
Revisit the issue.
Make sure the resolution sticks.

E – Establish Preventative Measures
Don’t just resolve – learn.
Set better norms, build team EQ, and train for next time.

Great leaders don’t avoid conflict.

They resolve it – and grow trust in the process.