Expert Give Insight On Effective Conflict Management Strategies in Startup, Innovation Ecosystem

An Information Technology expert and conflict resolution professional, Ifeoluwa Adejumo, has asserted that there innovative means through which workplace conflict can be resolved for organization’s sustainability.

Adejumo noted that in a dynamic realm of startups and innovation, conflicts are an inherent part of the journey. She added that the pressure to innovate, diverse personalities, and high stakes create an environment where disagreements can arise frequently.

She made these facts known in a recent media briefing while sharing thoughts on how startups and innovators can manage conflicts.

The IT expert explained that Startups are often characterized by lean teams and close-knit environments, fostering camaraderie but also amplifying the impact of conflicts.

She said further that misaligned visions, resource constraints, and strategic disagreements can pose significant threats to even the most promising ventures.

She went ahead to sighted an example of the the recent demise of Pivo, a Nigerian fintech startup, sheds light on the disruptive effects of internal conflicts.

“The irreconcilable differences between co-founders Nkiru Amadi-Emina and Ijeoma Akwiwu played a significant role in the downfall of what seemed like a promising digital bank.”

Adejumo emphasizes the importance of fostering a culture of open, regular communication, and transparency within startup teams.

“Founders and business leaders are advised to adopt an open-door policy, making themselves approachable for discussions on issues, concerns, or ideas. Regular and structured meetings, such as weekly team check-ins or monthly town hall meetings, should be implemented to facilitate top-down communication and bottom-up feedback.”

The expert stated that technology plays a pivotal role in conflict management within startups, where efficient communication is crucial.

She recommends using collaborative platforms and project management tools to enhance clarity and consistency.

“Real-time communication tools like Slack or Microsoft Teams can aid in resolving minor issues promptly, while video conferencing facilitates personal interactions for remote teams.

Feedback and survey tools provide anonymous spaces for team members to express concerns, and AI-driven analytics can detect patterns in team dynamics, offering insights that preempt conflicts.”

Adejumo disclosed that establishing transparent expectations and delineating roles and responsibilities early on can significantly reduce the likelihood of conflict.

She said this involves crafting detailed job descriptions, regularly updating them as the startup evolves, and implementing a transparent organizational structure. Clear communication channels and decision-making processes should be defined, ensuring everyone understands their roles and responsibilities.

She went further to suggests that startup founders and leaders can benefit from third-party mediation to manage internal conflicts. Noting that Mediators offer an unbiased perspective, creating a neutral ground for all parties to voice their concerns.

She says this external perspective is particularly valuable for resolving deep-seated issues that internal members may be too close to see objectively.

“Third-party mediation not only resolves current conflicts but also sets a precedent for handling future disagreements, promoting a culture of open communication within the startup.

Enhancing team cohesion and understanding can be achieved through regular team-building and feedback sessions. These structured yet flexible sessions allow for open communication, fostering camaraderie and trust.

Team-building activities, both in-person and virtual, break down barriers and encourage informal interactions, vital for understanding each other on a deeper level. Constructive feedback sessions, conducted regularly, aid in continuous improvement and development opportunities.” She added.

Adejumo concluding gave an insight that provides a comprehensive guide for startup founders and innovators to navigate conflicts effectively. She says by adopting these strategies, startups can transform conflicts into opportunities for growth and innovation, ensuring the long-term success of the venture and the overall health of the innovation ecosystem.