Confronting Workplace Conflict – Before it Affects Your Team

Why can’t we all just get along? Conflict in the workplace can be disruptive, a morale killer and decrease productivity. We spend most of our waking hours at work so if you find yourself dealing with conflict it’s best to nip it in the bud as soon as possible. It’s OK to have differences in opinion. They can be healthy and a source of true innovation in the workplace, but conflict is a different story.

One thing to remember is that it is imperative to focus on the problem itself and not make it personal. There might be people at work that you just don’t like or agree with on a regular basis. Just remember to be kind and respectful. As Samuel Johnson wrote, “Kindness is in our power even when fondness is not.”

Focus on addressing the issue. Stick to the facts and try to keep your emotions in check. If conflict is not handled in the appropriate manner it can be detrimental to relationships and to the success of the team.

When dealing with conflict, remember the following:

1. Don’t ignore it. Address it when it happens.
2. Talk through it with the individual. Invite them to lunch or coffee. Having difficult conversations in a more casual setting can help people feel more at ease and lead to more positive results.
3. Stay calm and respectful. You might want to blow your top, but try to stay calm. Don’t retaliate.
4. Use active listening. Listen to their side. Don’t interrupt. If you think you might, try placing your tongue on the roof of your mouth. It can help calm you and will also keep you from speaking out of turn.
5. Have empathy. Try to look at things from their perspective. There could be an underlying reason why they are reacting the way they are. It can put things in perspective and help you see their side.
6. Try to find the common ground. Be willing to compromise.
7. Know when to get others involved. If you’re dealing with a harassment issue or something where you feel threatened, know when to raise your concern to management or HR.
8. Lastly, don’t gossip. No one wins in this situation.

Think about how you handle conflict and try to remember these helpful tips the next time you find yourself dealing with it at work.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Susan Howells, Business Development Director