2012-2013 Negotiation & Conflict Resolution

<-- 2012-2013 MCH Competency Reflections

Tom Koloc M.Ed., LPC, NCC, Account Manager for LifeSolutions spoke on the topic of “Relating with Style.”  This concept pertains to creating positive work relationships by gleaning a better understanding of one’s social style and recognizing what other means of relating are present on a team.   Tools were given to determine the style of each trainee as well as information relating to how that style carries both strengths and weaknesses in a team dynamic.  In relating to one another, it was pointed out that flexibility, while remaining true to one’s principles, is key to fostering productive and positive relationships in all areas of life. 

This talk related to nearly all of the MCHB leadership competencies in its applicability to professional development in the area of neurodevelopmental disability.  These include Self-reflection, Ethics and Professionalism, Communication, Negotiation and Conflict Resolution, Cultural Competency, Family-centered Care, Developing Others through Teaching and Mentoring, Interdisciplinary Team Building, Working with Communities and Systems, as well as Policy and Advocacy.  Lessons from the talk can be directly applied to practice in an interdisciplinary setting or towards building interdisciplinary teamwork where it is not yet facilitated.  Community partnerships across agencies and fields of study to further support the needs of families in the area could also be conceived and strengthened by using the strategies given.  Knowledge of and flexibility with social styles in interpersonal relationships is a skill that we as LEND trainees can foster throughout our professional careers.