Conflict Resolution for New Managers

This course is designed to equip new managers with the tools and strategies to navigate and resolve workplace conflict confidently and constructively. At the core of the course is the Above-the-Line framework—a mindset that helps leaders recognize defensive or unproductive behaviors (below the line) and shift themselves and others into a state of ownership, curiosity, and collaboration (above the line). Participants will learn to foster psychological safety, guide difficult conversations, and lead teams through conflict with confidence and clarity.

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

•  Identify common sources and signs of workplace conflict.
• Differentiate between above-the-line and below-the-line behaviors.
• Recognize their own emotional triggers and default conflict responses.
• Apply practical tools to move conversations and team members above the line.
• Lead constructive conflict resolution conversations to strengthen team performance.

In partnership with:

Module 1: Understanding Conflict Dynamics

Objective: Build awareness of the root causes of conflict and your role as a new manager in resolving it.

Key Topics:

• An introduction to workplace conflict
• The nature of conflict
• Emotional triggers
• Strategies and benefits of addressing the causes of conflict

Module 2: Above & Below the Line Thinking

Objective: Understand the Above-the-Line model and its application to conflict resolution.

Key Topics:

• What is Above & Below the Line Thinking?
• Above-the-Line Feelings, language, and body language

Module 3: Moving Others Above the Line

Objective: Learn how to lead others out of defensiveness and into open, constructive dialogue.

Key Topics:

• Spotting Below-the-Line Behavior in Others
• Coaching Others Above the Line