Do you avoid conflict? Do you hate to even think about it? If you do, and you work in an animal shelter, rescue group or animal welfare organization, you’re not alone. It may be time to change how you think about conflict.

Conflict can actually strengthen relationships, increase creativity and lead to top-notch solutions. At the 2015 Best Friends National Conference, Karen Green, Executive Director of Portland’s Cat Adoption Team (CAT), spoke on the importance of developing new and better ways of dealing with conflict in animal organizations.

Karen, who holds a degree in organizational communication and a Certificate in Conflict Resolution and Mediation, became Executive Director of the Pacific Northwest’s largest feline-only shelter in 2012. Her revolutionary session showed how to turn disagreements, trash talk and bickering into doorways for collaboration and teamwork.

During this recorded version of her presentation, viewers will learn to recognize different conflict “styles” and when it’s appropriate to use them, and learn 10 tips and tools for effective conflict resolution. By approaching discord in ways that lead to a positive outcome, you will help create a healthy relationship to conflict within your organization.

Watch the complete presentation here, then take a quiz to earn a certificate of attendance!

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