If you run a business the next thing to be aware of after understanding the nuances of the trade is getting acquainted with the resolution of disputes. This can be a very tricky subject to master as there are few things managers hate more than litigation, resolving disputers is one of them. This is because even small and petty issues can find a way of blowing up and causing damage to relationships. It has the ability to tarnish reputations as well as consume huge amounts of time, money and talent.

In order to prevent lawsuits, smart managers seek to avoid them through the use of effective conflict resolution strategies so that win-win solutions can be found. Nevertheless, disputes occur. Here are a few ways you can manage them.

Put together a list of your evidence and facts

It is vital that you document the key details of the dispute. This means looking at times, dates, service and product details, photographs, warranties, agreements, leases, or contracts. You also have to look at a summary of discussions or any previous correspondence that occurs between the parties. It is vital to put your documentation in order, in a date-wise manner. Highlight the parts that are the most relevant.

Look at creative and out of the box solutions

When you look at dispute resolution, you have to think of creative and one-of-a-kind solutions. It is vital to look at a win-win solution that rebalances your business relationship. Put together a list of possible solutions to converse with the other party. It is important to set realistic expectations and also be willing to negotiate. Look at how you can achieve a specific solution or how not obtaining it can affect your business. You need to look at this in terms of money, time as well as future working relationships.

Write formally to the other party

If having a conversation does not do the trick, the next best solution involves writing formally to the other party. This should be done in a manner that outlines your position. It helps to offer another chance for the other party to resolve the dispute. This can also be used as evidence of your attempt to resolve the dispute should you want to use another means of resolution. The letter you write needs to bring to light the matters in dispute as well as the steps that are being taken to rectify the issue. It should also specify the timeframe for this to take place and the required solution for it. It also helps if you can include some of your documentary evidence.

See that you stay objective

In these matters, it is vital that you keep calm and stay objective. It is always vital to stay polite, calm, and professional in all of your written or spoken communications. Also, see that you avoid abusive or emotional language or laying the blame on anyone. It is also important that you try to understand the situation from the perspective of the other party.

All in all, there is nothing like talking that does not help negotiate a solution. Contact the other party and see that the person you are interacting with comes with the authority to settle the dispute. If the issue is minor, it can be managed with just a phone call. On the other hand, complex matters can be dealt with face to face. See that the call takes place in a calm and composed manner and do not interrupt the other party when they are speaking. It is vital to respond in a non-threatening manner. If you come to a solution, see that it occurs in writing. This can help in business continuity management as well as dispute resolution in the best possible way.