The Inevitability of Conflict and Harnessing its Potential for Good
I started helping farmers in an advisory capacity around 16 years ago, further to a number of years working on the farm. At first this was focused around crunching numbers and looking at tax analysis, but over time it has developed into offering an informed and objective sounding board to aid discussion and decision making.
The intertwining of geopolitics, ecological pressures, technology, and demographics are creating a real storm of uncertainty within agriculture. The need to adapt and change seems to be the only, and evermore important, constant. Alongside emerging ideas, possibilities, and opportunities, however, there are differing attitudes, dispositions, and reactions, which make for an interesting mix and challenging conversation.
I underwent training with the Chartered Institute of Arbitration last year to become an Accredited Mediator, to further my competence and confidence in the space that can emerge between business owners and family members as they navigate change. Two key points emerged from the teachings; firstly, conflict is inevitable, and secondly, if harnessed it can be a significant force for good.
Many people are instinctively conflict averse and avoid it at all costs. Others look to “win” a conflict, again at all costs. Few people look upon conflict as a useful tool to aid progress but approached in the right way it can yield significant benefits.
Better outcomes – the creative friction that arises from differing views and perspectives can be uncomfortable but is also the source of innovative ideas and effective risk mitigation. By exploring opposing opinions, one is forced to evaluate the pros and cons of each. Engaging in rigorous debate about how to overcome challenges therefore often leads to the best solutions.
Opportunities to learn and grow – by listening and taking on board feedback one gains experience and can become more informed and willing to try new things. With an open mind to a broader range of possibilities resilience is enhanced, as is the potential for success.
Improved relationships – working through a common struggle together helps people feel closer to one another and gain a better understanding of what is important to each of them. People also like to be heard, even if following discussion, the final decision is to go in a different direction.
Higher engagement – when members of the team, and family, can constructively disagree about issues that crop up and feel that they are able to contribute to and influence solutions, they are likely to be happier and more engaged. This can really help with retaining valued members of the team and increase the likelihood of identifying a willing and competent successor.
As noted above, many people are conflict averse, and you may find the above thoughts unnerving. For those looking for ways to approach difficult conversations there are a few key points that you may like to bear in mind.
Do not equate disagreement with unkindness – a common source of discomfort with conflict is the idea that one might upset the other party and there can be confusion around the differences of being clear and being unkind. Whilst communication should always be thoughtful and respectful, softening a message to the extent that it becomes unclear is neither helpful nor kind. Mixed messages and ineffective discussion are likely to lead to disagreements escalating into disputes in the longer term. To be clear is to be kind.
Focus on the big picture – when discussion heads towards disagreement it is easy to interpret some of the points raised as personal attacks. It is very helpful to take a step back and focus on the big picture, taking a moment to consider the intention behind the points being raised and the objective being sought. It can also be helpful to consider the fears that may be present in the other party, no doubt impacting on the delivery of their contribution.
Learn from a role model – it is likely that you know someone that appears able to be direct and clear about their thoughts and opinions to effect positive change. It can be helpful to pay attention to how they achieve what they do and emulate them. Better still, discuss with them their lessons and learn from their experience.
In summary, take the time to learn how to embrace different ideas, views, and opinions, as that is the space in which you are likely to find the successful path to the future.
In a world of increasing specialisms this is particularly important. Most farming businesses now include myriad collaborations between numerous parties as more and more business functions are “outsourced.” This can range from working with contractors, professional advisors, and operating within a co-operative, through to share farming, contract farming, and other formal joint ventures.
All collaborations are based upon effective working relationships, which in turn are based on clear communication and the ability to harness the potential from opposing ideas, views, and perspectives.
Now is a great time to invest in conversation with those you work with, honing your communication skills, broadening your understanding of what is emerging, and identifying how to make the best of the opportunities that present themselves.
Dan Knight FCA CTA MCIArb
Director
Dan joined the practice in 2019 having previously worked for a regional firm culminating as Head of Rural Tax.
Having grown up on a dairy farm on the Dorset/Somerset border, Dan spent a number of years working in agriculture before becoming a Chartered Accountant and a Chartered Tax Adviser. Harnessing both his practical and professional experience, Dan has spent the last decade advising farming businesses across the region on a wide range of issues.
Passionate about his work, Dan specialises in succession planning and restructuring, helping farming families to implement change, accomplish their ambition and enhance the legacy for future generations.
Dan is a keen shot in the field or facing the trap and thoroughly
enjoys supporting his young son on the football field.