HARNESSING CONFLICT: STRATEGIES FOR EFFECTIVE MANAGEMENT IN BUSINESS AND INTERPERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS

This study investigates strategies for effective conflict management in business and interpersonalrelationships, with a particular focus on the role of communication, emotional intelligence, powerdynamics, and cultural sensitivity. The research aims to explore how these factors influence conflictresolution outcomes and enhance interpersonal and organisational relationships. A survey researchdesign was adopted, with data collected from 383 employees of Presco Plc in Edo State, Nigeria, using astructured questionnaire. The study’s findings reveal significant relationships between communicationapproaches, emotional intelligence, and power dynamics, highlighting their role in facilitating effectiveconflict resolution. Cultural sensitivity, particularly the application of indigenous philosophies, wasfound to significantly influence the success of conflict management strategies. The study concludes thatintegrating emotional intelligence, effective communication, and a deep understanding of culturalcontexts are crucial for improving conflict resolution outcomes. Based on these findings, the studyrecommends that organisations invest in emotional intelligence training, adopt inclusive communicationstrategies, and integrate cultural sensitivity into conflict management frameworks. These approachesare essential for fostering positive business and interpersonal relationships and improving overallorganisational performance.