Conflict happens but how you handle it makes all the difference. Take this quick, 7-question quiz to discover your dominant Conflict Style and learn how you approach disagreements.
Someone challenges your idea in a meeting. You…
Defend it vigorously and counter their points.
Ask questions to understand their concerns and find common ground.
Nod and agree to their suggestions to keep the peace.
Say you’ll think about it later and steer clear of debate.
A coworker misses a deadline that impacts your work. You…
Confront them directly and demand a solution.
Propose a joint plan to catch up and avoid future delays.
Cover for them this time and let it slide.
Avoid bringing it up, hoping it won’t happen again.
You and a friend disagree on plans. You…
Insist on your choice – you feel strongly about it.
Brainstorm alternatives until you both feel good.
Let them pick so you don’t hurt their feelings.
Postpone deciding and hope the issue fizzles out.
Feedback from your manager feels unfair. You…
Push back and explain your perspective point by point.
Discuss their concerns and co-create an action plan.
Apologize and promise to improve without debate.
Keep quiet and try to adjust without confrontation.
A team decision goes against your preference. You…
Campaign hard to reverse it.
Volunteer to help shape a compromise everyone can live with.
Support the group choice to maintain unity.
Step back, go along quietly, and focus on other tasks.
When conflict escalates, you…
Double down on your position until you win.
Facilitate a calm discussion to resolve root issues.
Diffuse tension by apologizing or agreeing.
Withdraw and deal with stress in private.
After a heated exchange, you typically…
Feel satisfied if your point got across loudly and clearly.
Feel relieved once you’ve found mutual solutions.
Worry you hurt feelings and reach out to smooth things over.
Reflect alone on what happened before engaging again.
The Assertive Challenger
You stand your ground, push for your needs, and see conflict as a way to win. You’re direct and won’t back down easily.
The Cooperative Collaborator
You aim for a win-win outcome. You listen actively, seek creative solutions, and value the relationship as much as the result.
The Flexible Harmonizer
You prioritize harmony and will yield to maintain peace. You’re empathetic and quick to accommodate others’ needs.
The Strategic Observer
You step back, avoid confrontation, and wait for the right moment. You prefer to keep distance rather than engage in conflict.
