A few weeks ago in an executive coaching session with a member of the top management of a multinational company. A huge challenge. A comprehensive project to reorganise the production line was causing numerous conflicts. The sales department feared production losses, long-standing employees were sceptical and decision-makers tended to play down problems. Each of these conflicts threatened to jeopardise efficiency and team cohesion. But in the midst of this chaos, we discovered a surprising strength: the power of ambiguity.
In a world where quick decisions and clear instructions are often favoured, ambiguity can lead us to take more time to really listen. When clarity is not immediately demanded, space is created for the other party to fully present their case. This creates an atmosphere in which genuine listening and deep understanding are possible – an important foundation for effective leadership.
Unclear communication leaves room for arguments and counter-arguments. This interplay can lead to objective solutions by revealing errors and misunderstandings. It opens up the possibility of looking at different perspectives and developing innovative solutions that might not emerge in a rigid, clearly defined discussion.
In situations that are not immediately clear, managers and their teams are forced to remain open to different perspectives. This flexibility can lead to creative and unconventional solutions that add real value. Openness and a willingness to consider different approaches are crucial qualities for successful leaders.
By accepting ambiguity, we learn to tolerate different judgements. This tolerance is crucial for social peace within a team or organisation. It helps to avoid resource conflicts and creates a culture of respect and co-operation in which different opinions are valued.
Unclear communication can lead to both parties recognising that the other side’s arguments make sense and being willing to reach compromises or partial agreements. This can lead to synergies where the result is more than the sum of the individual parts. A team that is able to compromise is more resilient and better equipped to overcome challenges.
Conflicts often occur repeatedly. This understanding enabled us to proactively address problems and create a more stable working environment. By seeing conflict not as an obstacle but as an opportunity for improvement, we can develop more efficient work processes.
Conflict helps an organisation prepare for future challenges by highlighting weaknesses and offering opportunities for improvement. Ambiguity makes it possible to prepare for different scenarios and to develop flexible strategies that will endure even in uncertain times.
Through this experience, we have learnt that conflict and ambiguity are not only unavoidable, but can also serve as catalysts for growth and innovation. They challenge us to scrutinise existing processes and develop new, more efficient methods.
Conflicts are not obstacles, but opportunities. It is not a question of avoiding them, but of skilfully navigating them and exploiting their potential.
Utilise the power of ambiguity and experience how your communication blossoms and reaches new heights. Stay open, stay curious – success will follow!
Fronwagplatz 8 | 8200 Schaffhausen
Dufourstrasse 77 | 8008 Zürich
Fronwagplatz 8
8200 Schaffhausen
Dufourstrasse 77
8008 Zürich
+41 79 284 28 28 | c@hofmann.coach
Further Executive Coaching Locations in Basel und St. Gallen
+41 79 284 28 28
c@hofmann.coach
Further Executive Coaching Locations in Basel und St. Gallen
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