In every organization, conflict is inevitable—but how leaders respond to it can either derail a team or bring it closer together. For seasoned finance leader and Certified Management Accountant (Australia), Michelle Maralit, the difference lies in fairness, transparency, and the power of listening.
“I believe in addressing conflicts with fairness and transparency,” Michelle shared in an interview with Financial Adviser PH. “The first step is always to listen—understanding the root cause of the problem before reacting.”
Michelle’s conflict resolution style is grounded in a simple but powerful principle: open communication. Rather than brushing issues under the rug or jumping to conclusions, she takes time to hear all sides and understand the bigger picture. “Open communication is key,” she said. “I make sure to hear all perspectives before making a decision.”
In fast-paced, high-pressure environments—especially in finance—misunderstandings can escalate quickly. But Michelle believes that many of these challenges can be defused early through proactive dialogue. “Handling difficult situations isn’t easy,” she admitted. “But I’ve learned that avoiding them only makes things worse.”
Instead of shying away from tough conversations, she creates a space where team members feel safe speaking up. Her approach not only leads to faster resolutions but also builds a culture of trust that strengthens the entire team. “By fostering a culture of open dialogue and constructive feedback,” she explained, “many conflicts can be resolved before they escalate.”
The lesson for aspiring leaders? Conflict doesn’t have to be destructive—it can be an opportunity for growth. When handled with empathy and clarity, even the toughest situations can lead to stronger alignment, better understanding, and more resilient teams.
As Michelle shows, great leaders don’t avoid conflict—they face it head-on with transparency, integrity, and the courage to listen.
