You're dealing with a colleague who has a different work style. How can you resolve the conflict?

1 Identify the source of the conflict

The first step to resolving a conflict is to understand what is causing it. Is it a matter of different preferences, habits, expectations, or goals? Is it related to communication, collaboration, or feedback? Is it influenced by personality, culture, or values? Try to pinpoint the specific issues that are creating tension or misunderstanding between you and your colleague. You can do this by observing, asking, or reflecting on your own and your colleague's work style.

2 Acknowledge the differences

Once you have identified the source of the conflict, you need to acknowledge that you and your colleague have different work styles. This does not mean that one of you is right and the other is wrong, or that you have to change your work style to match theirs. It simply means that you recognize and respect that you have different ways of working, and that you are willing to find a common ground. You can do this by expressing your appreciation for your colleague's strengths, acknowledging their challenges, and sharing your own perspective.

3 Communicate effectively

Communication is key to resolving any conflict, especially when it involves different work styles. You need to communicate clearly, respectfully, and constructively with your colleague. You can do this by using active listening, empathizing, asking open-ended questions, giving and receiving feedback, and avoiding assumptions, judgments, or criticisms. You also need to communicate frequently, especially when you are working on a shared project or task. You can use various channels, such as email, phone, chat, or video call, to keep each other updated, informed, and aligned.

4 Adapt and compromise

Another strategy to resolve a conflict with a colleague who has a different work style is to adapt and compromise. This means that you are willing to adjust your work style to accommodate your colleague's needs, preferences, or expectations, and that you expect them to do the same for you. You can do this by finding a balance between your work styles, setting clear and realistic expectations, agreeing on roles and responsibilities, and establishing boundaries and rules. You can also use tools, such as calendars, project management software, or checklists, to organize and coordinate your work.

5 Seek support

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, you may not be able to resolve a conflict with a colleague who has a different work style on your own. In that case, you may need to seek support from someone else, such as a manager, a mentor, a mediator, or a human resources professional. You can do this by explaining the situation, the impact, and the steps you have taken to resolve it. You can also ask for advice, guidance, or intervention, depending on the severity and complexity of the conflict.

6 Learn and grow

The final tip to deal with a colleague who has a different work style is to learn and grow from the experience. You can do this by reflecting on what you have learned about yourself, your colleague, and your work style. You can also identify what you have done well, what you could have done better, and what you can improve for the future. You can also celebrate your achievements, appreciate your differences, and strengthen your relationship with your colleague.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?