Managing Conflict

The conflict between the two union leaders, Jane McAlevey and Vicky Hedderman, was a power struggle. McAlevey was the president of the union, but Hedderman was seen as a rising star who was challenging McAlevey's authority. The conflict was also personal, as the two women had a history of disagreements. The conflict between McAlevey and Hedderman was a classic example of a horizontal conflict. Horizontal conflicts occur between individuals or groups who are at the same level of authority. These conflicts can be very difficult to resolve, because neither party is willing to back down.

2. What did the two union leaders do to resolve their conflict?

The two union leaders tried to resolve their conflict through a number of different channels. They met with each other, they met with a mediator, and they even went to arbitration. However, none of these attempts to resolve the conflict were successful. In the end, the conflict between McAlevey and Hedderman became so toxic that they both resigned from their positions. McAlevey resigned as president of the union, and Hedderman resigned as vice president.

3. In hindsight, what might have been done to resolve the conflict before it escalated so far?

In hindsight, there are a number of things that could have been done to resolve the conflict between McAlevey and Hedderman before it escalated so far.

• The union could have implemented a conflict resolution policy. A conflict resolution policy would have provided a framework for the two leaders to resolve their differences. The policy could have included steps such as mediation, arbitration, and peer mediation.
• The union could have provided training for its leaders on conflict resolution. Training on conflict resolution would have helped the two leaders to learn how to communicate effectively and to resolve their differences in a constructive way.
• The union could have created a more supportive environment for its leaders. A more supportive environment would have made it easier for the two leaders to work together and to resolve their differences.

It is important to note that there is no guarantee that any of these interventions would have been successful. However, they would have provided the two leaders with a better chance of resolving their conflict in a constructive way. Conclusion The conflict between Jane McAlevey and Vicky Hedderman was a tragic example of how a power struggle can escalate into a toxic feud. The conflict had a devastating impact on the union, and it ultimately led to the resignation of both leaders. In hindsight, there are a number of things that could have been done to resolve the conflict before it escalated so far. However, the fact remains that the conflict was a product of the two leaders' personalities and their own personal agendas.

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