The Critical Role of Leadership in Conflict Resolution
- Morgan Hunter
- Jan 7
- 3 min read
Into The Shadows with Kristen Knepper Bahbahani
In this episode of Monster in My Closet, Anil and Morgan explore the critical topic of leadership and conflict resolution with their guest Kristen Knepper Bahbahani, a seasoned executive coach and DEI strategist. Together, they unpack how emotional intelligence, trauma awareness, and systemic issues influence workplace dynamics. The conversation offers practical strategies to foster healthier organizational cultures, normalize conflict resolution, and empower leaders to approach challenges with empathy and intentionality. Kristen shares real-life anecdotes, actionable insights, and thought-provoking observations about creating environments that encourage open dialogue and trust. These show notes contain the following:
"You can’t out-logic someone in lizard-brain mode."
Key Takeaways
Build Emotional Intelligence: Practice self-awareness by regularly reflecting on your emotional triggers and seeking coaching or therapy for continuous growth.
Normalize Vulnerability: Set the tone as a leader by openly sharing past mistakes and lessons learned to foster trust among your team.
Hit Pause: When tensions rise, use techniques like excusing yourself from the room or rescheduling to allow emotions to settle before addressing conflicts.
Ask Meaningful Questions: Use phrases like "Can you tell me more about this?" to better understand differing perspectives and diffuse heated situations.
Depersonalize Conflict: Shift focus from personal ego to collective goals by reminding yourself and others that the issue is not a personal attack.
Incorporate Neutral Mediators: Utilize third-party consultants or ombuds programs to address conflicts and systemic issues objectively.
Recognize Systemic Issues: Differentiate between interpersonal conflicts and larger organizational problems, addressing each with tailored solutions.
Communicate Transparently: Be honest about decisions and constraints while explaining the "why" behind them to ensure understanding and alignment.
Slow Down to Untangle Knots: Invest time in thoughtful problem-solving rather than rushing to resolve issues superficially.
Empower All Voices: Actively solicit feedback from employees at all levels to better identify blind spots and systemic challenges.
"If you pull on a knot in frustration, you’re just going to make it tighter."
Research and Statistics
Emotional Intelligence in Leadership: Research from the Harvard Business Review shows that 90% of top performers possess high emotional intelligence, which directly correlates to team effectiveness and conflict resolution.
Burnout and Workplace Productivity: A Gallup survey revealed that 76% of employees experience burnout at least sometimes, leading to lower engagement and higher turnover rates.
The Cost of Unresolved Conflict: A CPP Inc. study found that U.S. employees spend approximately 2.8 hours weekly dealing with conflict, costing businesses $359 billion annually in lost productivity.
Diversity and Inclusion Impact: McKinsey's "Diversity Wins" report highlights that companies in the top quartile for gender diversity are 25% more likely to outperform financially than less diverse peers.
Third-Party Mediation Success Rates: Studies indicate that organizations using external mediators see resolution rates of 80–85%, compared to 50–60% when handled internally.
Suggested Reading
Dare to Lead by Brené Brown
Crucial Conversations by Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, et al.
The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni
Emotional Intelligence 2.0 by Travis Bradberry and Jean Greaves
Radical Candor by Kim Scott
Wrap-up
Effective conflict resolution isn’t about quick fixes or avoiding discomfort; it’s about embracing emotional intelligence, building trust, and tackling challenges with empathy and transparency. As Kristen aptly put it, "People are what matter most." Whether you’re a leader navigating systemic issues or a team member fostering better dialogue, these strategies offer a blueprint for healthier, more collaborative workplaces. After all, the human experience is about relationships—and resolving conflicts is central to building strong, thriving communities.
More about Kristen Knepper Bahbahani
Kristen Knepper Bahbahani is the founder of Work. Like a Girl.co, an executive career coaching and consulting firm. Kristen works with individuals and organizations to develop leaders, create a strong culture, implement DEI strategy, and strengthen team communication.
Kristen is a former attorney and Senate policy advisor, who transitioned into the field of technology. Within technology, she served as an account manager, director, and senior director to global teams at multiple companies. Her mission is to uplift those who have traditionally been underestimated, while increasing performance and profit.
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