Conflict is a given in the workplace. With so many different personalities under one roof, you’re bound to clash with someone. The way you manage conflict though, can affect the environment you and others work in.
Conflict can come in many forms. It can be a disagreement with how a particular process at work should play out, a personal disagreement that festers between two or more people, or it can simply be that two or more people with completely different personalities just don’t get along. Here are a few tips we’ve put together on how to deal with conflict in the office:
Report it
Now that you are aware of the conflict, whether it is involving you or someone else, report it. Either to your manager or if your business has one, a HR representative. The issue has to be dealt with correctly and maturely, so don’t hesitate to communicate it so that it can be resolved quickly and appropriately.
Now the conflict has been raised to the manager’s attention, the situation can be managed. If a disagreement cannot be resolved on a one to one basis, it may be better resolved in a meeting with a more senior member of your team, and those involved. Dealing with the situation head on, although awkward and uncomfortable, will create a better atmosphere in the workplace.
Coping mechanisms
If the conflict involves you and is occurring on a daily basis, try some coping mechanisms to keep yourself calm while you’re at work.
If you are constantly bothered by this conflict e.g. a co-worker continuously criticises your work openly, or is difficult to communicate with, try and count to ten to calm yourself when you are feeling frustrated. Don’t react and become emotionally involved – put it to the back of your mind and try to be as professional as you can.
Improve communication
Communication is essential within the workplace. Choosing not to improve it or adapt the way you communicate with different people could cause conflict to arise, or increase the frustration between a group of co-workers. Managers or supervisors should openly encourage communication.
Accept that conflict will happen
No matter what job you are in or what industry it is, there will no doubt be some form of conflict. How big that conflict becomes is down to how it is handled. If the conflict is left unresolved, it can get worse.
Some people believe that disagreements can lead to more drive, ambition and more creative energy – but this should be managed carefully in the event that it starts to create a negative atmosphere, ultimately affecting how the business moves forward, and how you feel about going to work every day.
