#AskAMediator☝️| 📚 “What are your top reading recommendations for conflict resolution?” Discover essential books and resources.
Top reading recommendations for conflict resolution
7 Mediators Share Their Top Reading Recommendations for Conflict Resolution
How we navigate and resolve conflicts defines the harmony of our relationships and the success of our endeavours. In our quest to unravel the mysteries of conflict resolution, I received the insights of seven distinguished mediators, who qualified as mediators as early as 2002 and as recently as 2021.
Their recommendations not only serve as a compass for those treading the path of conflict resolution but also offer a diverse and dynamic approach suitable for individuals beyond the mediation realm.
Join us as we explore the wisdom shared by mediators Charlotte May, Lawrence Harrison, Pip Brown, Alan Jeffrey, our anonymous contributor, Susan Hammond and Gary Webber.
From timeless classics to modern podcasts, these recommendations promise a holistic and accessible journey through the intricacies of resolving conflicts with finesse and empathy.
Managing Conflict with Expert Insight:
Charlotte May shared her top three go-to resources for conflict resolution. Topping her list is Managing Conflict by David Liddle, a book acclaimed for its practical guidance. Charlotte also emphasises the significance of gems such as How to Resolve Bullying in the Workplace by Alan Sharland and The Authority Guide to Conflict Resolution by Jane Gunn. As Charlotte navigates the complex terrain of conflict resolution, these resources stand out for their actionable insights.
Time-Tested Classics and Hidden Gems:
Lawrence Harrison has no hesitation in recommending the book that first made him aware of mediation, A Sudden Outbreak of Common Sense: Managing Conflict through Mediation by Andrew Acland. “More than 30 years old but still worth reading by anyone wanting to understand what mediation is about,” he says. He also highlights Ripples from Peace Lake – Essays for Mediators and Peacemakers by Eric R. Galton, a short but impactful read perfect for navigating uncertain situations. To round off his suggestions, Lawrence introduces a modern twist with John Sturrock’s podcast series, “Better Conversations, Better Outcomes,” offering a dynamic and accessible approach to conflict resolution. They can be found at https://core-solutions.com/podcasts/. He also gives honourable mentions to two classic books specifically for mediators, Setting up in Business as a Mediator by Stephen Walker and How to Master Commercial Mediation, edited by David Richbell.
Essentials for Effective Conflict Resolution:
Pip Brown, another mediator with a knack for practical recommendations, points to essentials for effective conflict resolution. Her top picks include Getting to Yes by William Ury, renowned for its negotiation strategies. She complements this with Nonviolent Communication by Marshall B. Rosenberg, delving into compassionate communication skills. Finally, Pip suggests The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey, bringing a holistic approach to personal and professional effectiveness.
Transformative Insights from Mediate.com:
Alan Jeffrey is another mediator to give a vote for Getting to Yes by Roger Fisher and William Ury. He also values insights into transformative mediation, a unique approach to conflict intervention that was first articulated by Robert A. Baruch Bush and Joseph P. Folger in 1994 in The Promise of Mediation. Lastly, he recommends leveraging the valuable content and expertise accessible on the international platform, Mediate.com.
[I also highly recommend Alan’s own wonderful site: https://www.mongooseandcobra.co.uk/ – a blog about conflict, mediation, relationships and the importance of community. Written by Alan Jeffrey, with original art by Paul Burns.]
Palette of Conflict Resolution Resources:
Our anonymous mediator provides a diverse palette of conflict resolution resources. The Mediator’s Handbook by Jennifer Beer and Caroline Packard takes centre stage, offering a comprehensive guide. Steering away from conventional choices, Anon suggests Who Moved My Cheese by Spencer Johnson, a unique perspective on adapting positively to change. To round off the recommendations, Anon highlights The Promise of Mediation by Robert Bush and Joseph Folger for its transformative approach.
Blend of Professional and Personal Growth:
Susan Hammond, a mediator who understands the intricacies of conflict, offers a unique blend of professional and personal growth resources. Her top picks include The Conflict Pivot by Tammi Lenski, a guide to turning conflict into peace of mind. Building on the theme of effective communication, she recommends Non-Violent Communication by Marshall Rosenberg. Lastly, Susan introduces a psychological perspective with The Chimp Paradox by Dr. Steve Peters, adding a layer of self-awareness to the conflict resolution toolkit.
Strategic Picks for Effective Negotiation:
Gary Webber brings a strategic trio of recommendations. First up on his list is How to Beat Bedlam in the Boardroom and Boredom in the Bedroom by Jane Gunn, offering insights into navigating challenges both professional and personal. Gary also emphasises the importance of Bargaining with the Devil by Robert Mnookin, a guide to negotiation tactics in even the most challenging situations. Rounding off his recommendations is Never Split the Difference by Chris Voss, providing a tactical approach to high-stakes negotiations.
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Thank you to these expert mediators and colleagues who have generously shared their tried-and-true resources, creating a helpful guide for anyone seeking to navigate the complex landscape of conflict resolution.
Whether you’re a mediator or someone looking to enhance your conflict resolution skills, these recommendations provide a diverse and insightful starting point for your journey.
Top reading recommendations for conflict resolution – our reading list in alphabetical order
- A Sudden Outbreak of Common Sense: Managing Conflict through Mediation by Andrew Acland (1990)
- Bargaining with the Devil by Robert Mnookin (2010)
- Better Conversations, Better Outcomes (podcast series) by John Sturrock – Podcasts available at core-solutions.com/podcasts/
- Getting to Yes by Roger Fisher and William Ury (2012)
- How to Beat Bedlam in the Boardroom and Boredom in the Bedroom by Jane Gunn (2010)
- How to Master Commercial Mediation, edited by David Richbell (2014)
- How to Resolve Bullying in the Workplace by Alan Sharland (2015)
- Managing Conflict by David Liddle (2016)
- Mediate.com
- Mongoose and Cobra blog
- Never Split the Difference by Chris Voss (2016)
- Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life by Marshall B. Rosenberg (2003)
- Ripples from Peace Lake: Essays for Mediators and Peacemakers by Eric R. Galton (2017)
- Setting up in Business as a Mediator by Stephen Walker (2015)
- The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey (1989)
- The Authority Guide to Conflict Resolution by Jane Gunn (2016)
- The Chimp Paradox: The Mind Management Program to Help You Achieve Success, Confidence, and Happiness by Dr. Steve Peters (2012)
- The Conflict Pivot: Turning Conflict into Peace of Mind by Tammy Lenski (2014)
- The Mediator’s Handbook by Jennifer E. Beer and Caroline C. Packard (2012)
- The Promise of Mediation: The Transformative Approach to Conflict by Robert A. Baruch Bush and Joseph P. Folger (2005)
- Who Moved My Cheese? by Spencer Johnson (1998)
What are your top reading recommendations for conflict resolution? Do let me know of any crucial classics or new resources to add to our list.
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