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Calming Office Conflicts

Conflict. Wherever you work, whatever you do, it's sure to happen. Whether due to a personality clash, differing opinions, or a power struggle, disagreement happens. But a few simple strategies can help you deal with workplace wars.

Don't remain silent

Be careful about biting your tongue—that's not always the best approach. While speaking up creates risks, so does letting things slide off your back when you really should make your position known. Here is what happens if you stay mum about office conflicts—it creates:

  • Poor teamwork, which hinders productivity and professional development
  • Pent up anger or unhappiness, causing stress and unsuitable behavior
  • Sends a message to your managers that you are unhappy, hard to work with or an otherwise difficult employee

5 Simple steps for dispute resolution

When in doubt, turn to these guidelines to help you decide if a problem exists, and then how to address it:

  • Look inside yourself. Is this issue more about yourself and your own insecurities, or is it truly an issue that involves another person?
  • Confide in someone. A trusted friend or family member may be able to shed light on a situation that you can't see clearly.
  • Stay positive. Give the person the benefit of the doubt. Assume that they are either unaware of the problem or also experience a misunderstanding.
  • Communicate clearly. Once you determine that the problem cannot be solved using other methods, approach the person and share your perspective in a clear, yet open-minded, manner. If you downplay the problem for fear of offending them, it will never get resolved.
  • Be willing to compromise. If you don't have the best intentions coming into the discussion, you won't make any progress. Realize that the other person may feel as unhappy about your behavior as you do about theirs.

An ounce of prevention

The best way to avoid disputes is by forming positive relationships beforehand. To accomplish this:

  • Keep your promises
  • Resolve disputes as soon as they arise
  • Be an ally to others if you agree with them
  • Give credit where credit is due

Like so many things in life, dispute resolution follows the golden rule: treat others with respect, honesty and integrity and you will typically have a pleasant work experience. But if you cannot resolve the conflict with the people involved, then you may need to ask for the help of a supervisor or manager.
 

 

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