The CLEAR Method for Transforming Conflict: Case Study Application
Connect, Listen, Explore, Align, Resolve
1.
Connect
2.
Listen
3.
Explore
4.
Align
5.
Resolve
Purpose
Create a respectful and open space for both parties to feel heard.
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Begin by affirming the intention to resolve the conflict collaboratively.
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Acknowledge each person’s perspective and emotions.
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Example: "Thank you both for being open to working through this. Let's make sure we understand each other fully."
Purpose
Fully hear and reflect the narratives of both parties.
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Step 1: Have the first person share their perspective uninterrupted.
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Step 2: Ask the second person to summarize what they heard from the first.
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Example Question: "Can you summarize what [Person A] just shared to ensure we’re all aligned?"
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Step 3: Repeat the process with the second person sharing their perspective.
Purpose
Break down the conflict into manageable parts.
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Identify and list all the topics or issues raised in the narratives.
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Keep adding to the list until both agree that all concerns have been captured.
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Example: "From what you've both shared, here are the key topics: [list]. Is there anything missing?"
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Prioritize the list based on urgency or importance.
Purpose
Collaboratively generate solutions and find common ground.
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Brainstorm multiple options for each prioritized topic.
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Ensure both parties contribute to the brainstorming process.
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Example: "What are some possible solutions to address [specific topic]?"
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Narrow down to one or two actionable options that feel fair and achievable.
Purpose
Create a concrete plan with accountability.
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Develop a step-by-step action plan:
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What: Specific actions to take.
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Who: Assign responsibility.
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When: Establish deadlines.
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Set a follow-up to review progress and ensure accountability.
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Example: "Let’s agree on a time next month to check in and review how the plan is working."
-
Purpose
Create a respectful and open space for both parties to feel heard.
-
Begin by affirming the intention to resolve the conflict collaboratively.
-
Acknowledge each person’s perspective and emotions.
-
Example: "Thank you both for being open to working through this. Let's make sure we understand each other fully."
Purpose
Fully hear and reflect the narratives of both parties.
-
Step 1: Have the first person share their perspective uninterrupted.
-
Step 2: Ask the second person to summarize what they heard from the first.
-
Example Question: "Can you summarize what [Person A] just shared to ensure we’re all aligned?"
-
-
Step 3: Repeat the process with the second person sharing their perspective.
Purpose
Break down the conflict into manageable parts.
-
Identify and list all the topics or issues raised in the narratives.
-
Keep adding to the list until both agree that all concerns have been captured.
-
Example: "From what you've both shared, here are the key topics: [list]. Is there anything missing?"
-
-
Prioritize the list based on urgency or importance.
Purpose
Collaboratively generate solutions and find common ground.
-
Brainstorm multiple options for each prioritized topic.
-
Ensure both parties contribute to the brainstorming process.
-
Example: "What are some possible solutions to address [specific topic]?"
-
-
Narrow down to one or two actionable options that feel fair and achievable.
Purpose
Create a concrete plan with accountability.
-
Develop a step-by-step action plan:
-
What: Specific actions to take.
-
Who: Assign responsibility.
-
When: Establish deadlines.
-
-
Set a follow-up to review progress and ensure accountability.
-
Example: "Let’s agree on a time next month to check in and review how the plan is working."
-
Example in Action
Scenario: Two team members are in conflict over resource allocation.
1. Connect
"I see this is frustrating for both of you, and I appreciate your willingness to resolve it."
2. Listen
One shares their perspective; the other summarizes, then shares their own.
3. Explore
Topics include miscommunication, resource distribution, and unclear expectations.
4. Align
Brainstorm ideas like redistributing tasks, setting clearer guidelines, or scheduling weekly check-ins. Agree on redistributing tasks as the first step.
5. Resolve
Assign tasks, clarify responsibilities, and set a meeting in two weeks to review.