Managing Conflict

"This updated edition expertly outlines a pragmatic and well thought-through framework for making a positive change to people's experience of work. An essential read for anyone who believes organizations don't have to choose between performance and fairness, justice and learning." * David D’Souza, Membership Director, CIPD *
"If you want to make a difference in your organization - buy and use this book. Updated to reflect how we are working now; David's book gives managers and HR practitioners space for reflection and crucially inspiration." * Margaret Ayers, Director of Human Resources & Organizational Development, Canterbury Christ Church University *
"In a period of increasing polarization and hostility, this second edition of Managing Conflict shows us how to nurture more supportive, compassionate dialogue within the workplace. Filled to the brim with tools, techniques and templates, this book masterfully guides the reader on a journey to building a conflict-healthy culture." * Becky Norman, Managing Editor, HRZone & Training Zone *
"Managing Conflict, 2nd Edition is a comprehensive guide that emphasizes the positive potential of conflict management and highlights the need for a shift from retributive systems to person-centred and values-based approaches for managing conflict. David presents real-life examples of conflict resolution, including workplace disputes and community conflicts, demonstrating the power of dialogue and restorative approaches." * Kien Yip PHANG, Certified Mediator (IMI/SIMI) & Ombuds Specialist Consultant, FAO *
"In this 2nd edition of Managing Conflict, David Liddle has written an incredibly useful book that shows how to measure the costs of conflict in any workplace, and how to prevent and resolve it. It is insightful and immensely practical and I recommend it highly." * Kenneth Cloke, Mediator, arbitrator and author *
"This edition uses additional case studies and templates to show how well the transformative Resolution Framework works. The book is an invaluable source for any human resources or employee relations professional." * Peter Frost, Consultant, Herbert Smith Freehills LLP *
"When harnessed well, conflict can lead to better conversations, more diverse thinking and improved decision making. But at its worst, it can sit at the heart of a toxic culture where bullying and harassment go unchecked. David Liddle's book is a practical and essential guide to a subject that is of increasing importance to organizations as they strive for a culture that enables everyone to bring their best." * Martin Blackburn, VP, Head of HR – EMEA, RenaissanceRe *
"The 2nd edition is much more relevant to the world we live in now and is reflective of the changes that have impacted our lives in recent times. Recent world events such as the COVID-19 pandemic are acknowledged in the book as huge factors which have shaken our world. The book explores the notion that emotional intelligence and creating space for people to have adult to adult conversations is really the cornerstone of effective conflict management, and in my view, couldn't be truer. The book truly acknowledges the human element, the person behind the issues and the conflict. Practical, insightful, concise and intelligently written." * Jenny Hannon, HR Advisor, KPMG *
"David's book brings to light the importance on why organizations should embrace informal conflict resolution processes and embed mediation in its grievance framework. The book also adds a unique insight to the ongoing discussions on why organizations should seriously consider the restorative justice approach." * Nike Ajibowo, Head of Employee Relations and Inclusion, Plan International *
"An essential read for leaders, HR professionals and unions, this book revolves around the powerful principle of dialogue, guiding readers on a journey towards healthier, more productive workplaces. Its engaging, well-structured content captivates from the outset, leaving readers unable to put it down." * Rachel Bennett MCIPD, Founder, HR Fusion Ltd *
"In this transformative book, conflict becomes a catalyst for growth. Offering an updated, holistic framework for proactive conflict resolution, it's a crucial guide for both novices and experts. Perfect for modern workplaces, it empowers readers to cultivate a positive conflict culture in their organizations, providing practical tools for the future of conflict management at work. A must-read for the forward-thinking Human Resources professional." * Ahmed Zaky, People & Culture Manager, TIMG (New Zealand) *
"If you are in the HR profession this is a must read. The tools are all here, backed by fascinating case studies from businesses which he has worked over the past 20 years. This book needs to be in the hands of every HR professional." * Gemma Bromfield ACIPD, Manager Director and HR Consultant, Go Beyond HR Consultancy Ltd *
"Managing Conflict 2ed is a breath of fresh air in the field of conflict management and is highly recommended for all actors involved in managing workplace conflict." * Trond Løkling, Co-Founder, Semje Software AS *
"Wow! What an inspiring and compelling book. A must read for all leaders, lawyers, ER Professionals, HR, and managers. In fact, anyone who wants to navigate conflict more effectively. This is an extremely practical guide which covers the lifecycle and causes of conflict, managing conflict from an employment law perspective, measuring the cost of conflict and the impact of a toxic culture, the psychology behind it all, routes to resolution, how to develop a Resolution Framework, how to resolve a toxic culture, how to develop an internal mediation scheme and how to do a quick health check on your organization. David has started a "Resolution Movement"." * Louisa Deboer, Global Employment Counsel, and Wellbeing Founder, The Pause Before *
"I hope that employers will pick up a copy of this timely new edition and reflect on the benefits of implementing a restorative and humanistic 'Resolution Framework' in their workplace." * Victoria Harris, Trustee, Mediation Hertfordshire & Programme Manager, Civil Mediation Council *
"This Edition uses additional case studies and templates to show how well the transformative Resolution Framework works. The book is an invaluable source for any human resources or employee relations professional." * Peter Frost, Consultant, Employment Group, Herbert Smith Freehills LLP *
"A gentle guide to a difficult topic; thought- provoking and clear." * Nicola Wood, Senior Independent Director, Information Commissioner's Office *
"Active listening skills and recognising the consequences of conflict has never felt more important. David Liddle has ably convince the reader, of the need for Leaders to use mediation along with the emotional and financial benefits of doing so." * Sally Hopper, FCIPD, FRSA, MSc, Director of Human Resources, Hertfordshire County Council *
"This is an essential book for organizations. David Liddle shares his expertise and equips the readers to become proactive and embrace positive dialogues, transform conflicts from dysfunctional to functional, and achieve remarkable outcomes. David helps the reader understand the causes and impact of conflicts, and how to use efficient frameworks and tools for conflict management and mediation." * Ewa Hutmacher, CEO and co-founder, Snabbfoting *
"Especially useful are the Resolution Reflections. Don't skip them. Answer the short pertinent questions. You will learn a lot. All mediators not just workplace specialists will benefit for reading this insightful and lively text." * Stephen Walker, Mediator and author, S Walker Mediation *
"An antidote to the prevailing approach, Managing Conflict offers step-by-step guidance to developing a more holistic, mediation-centric approach called the Resolution Framework. HR professionals, business leaders, lawyers, and labour representative would benefit from the book's analysis of workplace conflict and how to constructively manage conflict so that healthy, functional relationships are not only maintained but can flourish in workplaces." * Tony Scida, Principal and Chief People Office, Re:Focus HR Solutions Inc. *
"An antidote to the prevailing approach, Managing Conflict offers step-by-step guidance to developing a more holistic, mediation-centric approach called the Resolution Framework. HR professionals, business leaders, lawyers, and labour representative would benefit from the book's analysis of workplace conflict and how to constructively manage conflict so that healthy, functional relationships are not only maintained but can flourish in workplaces." * Sanja Moll, Mediator and Leadership Coach *
"I have to agree that we could "do workplace conflict better". Listening, talking and collaboration through informal and formal mediation instead of relying on the misery of our disciplinary and grievance processes will surely serve everyone better. Get the book!" * Helen Goss, Partner, Boyes Turner LLP *
"The book is written in a fascinating way. This book describes innovative strategic approaches to developing a culture of sustainable conflict management that can promote positive engagement of all parties, save costs, reduce stress, and increase well-being." * Aga Yamin, HR Expert *
"This book is a must read for all HR Professionals - it is a comprehensive, easy to read textbook and made even better by being very interactive with the reflection boxes throughout each chapter. The book offers a real in-depth understanding of how conflict can arise, the cost to a business (both monetary and psychologically) and resolution options fully explained." * Lisa Hodgkiss, Assoc CIPD, MIoL *
"A highly informative and inspiring book, which shows how conflict can in fact be seen as something positive! This book should be read by anyone who has to deal with conflict management - HR and management alike." * Petta G. Praschma, Employer branding enthusiast and Ambassador for the Human Relations Collective *
"Such expertise and experience, all openly shared and backed with good research and sound results; this edition is practical and for any CPO/HRD" * Amanda Harcus, Experienced HRD, Culture and Change Expert *
"The 2nd edition of Managing Conflict is the ultimate gift to HR practitioners Liddle shares key takeaways with the reader; including useful tests on toxic workplace culture, cost impact analysis for ER matters and approaches to integrate mediation into conflict scenarios. For anyone working in HR who has felt disenfranchised, overwhelmed and just a bit stuck; this book is for you." * Shane O’Brien, Senior Employee Experience Manager, EMEA, MongoDB *