Working better with workplace conflict 2027

Building confidence and capability to understand, assess, and respond to workplace conflict.

Conflict is a normal part of working life. Difficult conversations, recurring tensions, disagreements about priorities, communication breakdowns, strained working relationships, and concerns that seem never to be fully resolved are familiar experiences in many workplaces. 

Yet conflict is often addressed before it is properly understood. We react to what is most visible, focus on the presenting issue, or rely on approaches that provide only temporary relief. 

This practical and highly interactive programme is designed to help participants develop greater confidence and capability in working with workplace conflict. Rather than focusing only on conflict-handling techniques, the course develops a structured approach to understanding conflict situations, exercising sound judgment, and responding effectively.

The course is also offered as an optional foundation course to the negotiation skills course.

When and where?

8, 9 and 11 March 2027 (Monday, Tuesday and Thursday) and 15 and 16 March 2027 (Monday and Tuesday), 14:00 to 17:00 SAST

This course will be held remotely, most likely on Zoom

Course outline

Participants will learn how to:

• Understand what may be contributing to a conflict beyond the presenting issue
• Identify the organisational, interpersonal, and work-related factors shaping a situation
• Recognise recurring patterns that cause conflict to persist or re-emerge
• Assess what requires attention, what can wait, and how to respond appropriately
• Communicate more effectively in situations of disagreement, tension, and uncertainty
• Engage constructively with difficult workplace conversations

Throughout the programme, participants will work with realistic workplace scenarios, practical exercises, and structured discussion. Participants are also encouraged to bring examples and challenges from their own workplaces, creating opportunities to reflect on real situations, test possible responses, and learn from the experience and perspectives of others. 

By the end of the programme, participants will have a practical framework for understanding workplace conflict, greater confidence in handling difficult situations, and a clearer sense of how to respond in ways that are constructive, proportionate, and effective. 

Download an extract from the course manual to find out more about one of the topics that will be covered.

Who will benefit from this course?

The course will benefit anyone who wants to improve their conflict management skills, and will be particularly beneficial to those who face the challenge of managing or navigating conflict in their work environments. The course is also offered as an optional foundation course to the negotiation skills course.

Presenter

David Woolfrey is a practising attorney and an experienced trainer and practitioner in conflict and dispute resolution.

How much?

R9,525 per person

Certificate

A digital certificate of completion from UCT will be issued to those who pass the assessment.

Please note that the digital certificate can only be viewed on a secure portal. It cannot be downloaded or printed. You will have the option of ordering a hard copy of the certificate at your own cost, including the cost of the courier fee. More information is available here.

SIGN UP HERE: Primer on managing conflict | UCT Law at Work