Your conflict management style is determined by the repeated approach you take in a conflict. This is different from a tactic which is used one time in a certain situation.

When disagreeing with co-workers, it is important to understand what type of approach is needed. Here are some options:

Avoidance: represents low assertiveness and low cooperation. Avoiders would rather walk away from conflict than discuss it.
You can use this style if an issue is not worth arguing about, and/or you need time to think about it.

Competition: represents a high level of self concern and a low level of concern for others ideas or thoughts. People who are competitors may get what they want, but lose friendships along the way. Competition can elevate the quality of a product or service if used carefully.

Accommodation: the opposite of competition, represents a low level of concern for ones self but a high level of concern for others. Accommodators put their interests last to let others have it their way. Warning: if you expect to get your way the next time, let the other person know this, or else they will think you really wanted the solution and the other person owes you nothing.

Compromise: Compromisers don’t mind splitting the difference. “Something is better than nothing”. This method works if more than one person has a good idea, they can be combined and or if each side stands to gain something.

Collaboration: Labeled as the win – win situation. Collaborators work with others to ensure that every ones interests can be met, not just one over the other. Collaboration builds good relationships but takes the most time. A good time to use this style is in meetings and brainstorming sessions.