DiscoverAll Things ConflictBridging Generational Gaps: Understanding Intergenerational Conflict in the Workplace
Bridging Generational Gaps: Understanding Intergenerational Conflict in the Workplace

Bridging Generational Gaps: Understanding Intergenerational Conflict in the Workplace

Update: 2025-08-19
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Description

In this episode of "All Things Conflict," Maria Arpa welcomes Patrick Dunne, a seasoned expert in conflict management with extensive experience working with boards and social enterprises. Patrick shares insights from his diverse background, including his work with intergenerational and cross-cultural teams, and discusses the recurring themes of conflict, such as self-awareness, communication, and role clarity. He emphasises the importance of understanding different perspectives and the value of curiosity and compassion in fostering trust. The conversation also touches on the dynamics of generational differences in the workplace and the significance of developing strong interpersonal skills. Patrick's unique experiences and practical techniques, such as the FIDO method and the Thomas-Kilmann conflict styles, provide valuable tools for leaders navigating conflict in various settings.


KEY TAKEAWAYS




  1. Self-Awareness in Conflict: A lack of self-awareness often leads to conflict. Understanding one's strengths, weaknesses, and the impact on others is crucial for effective conflict management.




  2. Recurring Themes in Conflict: Common sources of conflict include conflicting objectives, personalities, high-pressure situations, and unclear roles, especially between boards and executives.




  3. Importance of Communication: Effective communication is vital in conflict resolution. Misinterpretations can arise when trust is low, and understanding different perspectives is essential for resolving disputes.




  4. Intergenerational Dynamics: Different generations bring unique perspectives shaped by their experiences. Emphasizing a maximizing mindset can help organizations leverage the strengths of diverse age groups rather than focusing on minor irritations.




  5. Value of Intuition and Antennae: Developing strong interpersonal skills and being attuned to the emotional climate of a room can enhance conflict management. Recognizing body language and emotional cues in oneself and others is key to navigating complex interactions.






SOCIAL LINKS


www.centreforpeacefulsolutions.org


www.peacefulsolutions.org.uk


www.workplacehuddle.com




Patrick Dunne's Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrickdunne2/




HOST BIO


Maria founded the Centre for Peaceful Solutions in response to the fatal shooting of a 7 year old in her neighbourhood. She developed a model of conflict resolution for violent crime using her brainchild, the Dialogue Road Map (DRM).  


Over 30 years she has mediated everything from threat to life gang disputes to high stakes business deals gone wrong, Maria empowers people to resolve conflict without reliance on experts. So she trains violent prisoners to be facilitators, leaders to be effective communicators, teenagers to be peer mediators and neighbours to be tenant listeners within their respective communities.




This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/




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Bridging Generational Gaps: Understanding Intergenerational Conflict in the Workplace

Bridging Generational Gaps: Understanding Intergenerational Conflict in the Workplace

Maria Arpa MBE