Here's how you can navigate conflicts with your boss and reach a resolution.

Interpersonal conflicts are common in the workplace, and it’s easy to get caught up in them. But that can lead to reduced creativity, slower and worse decision-making, and even fatal mistakes. (1) Understand that your perspective is not the only one possible. (2) Be aware of and question any unconscious biases you may be facing. (3) View the conflict not as me-versus-them but as a problem to be jointly solved. (4) Understand what outcome you’re aiming for. (5) Be very judicious in discussing the issue with others. (6) Experiment with behavior change to find out what will improve the situation. (7) Make sure to stay curious about the other person and how you can more effectively work together.

Before addressing conflicts with your boss, take the time to thoroughly understand the underlying issues from both perspectives. Clarify the specific behaviors or situations causing tension and consider the context surrounding them. Practical Tip: Schedule a one-on-one meeting with your boss to discuss the conflict openly and constructively. Approach the conversation with an open mind and a willingness to listen to their viewpoint.

Maintaining professionalism is essential when navigating conflicts with your boss. Keep emotions in check and focus on addressing the conflict in a respectful and diplomatic manner. Avoid engaging in personal attacks or gossip, as this can escalate tensions and damage relationships. Practical Tip: Choose your words carefully and communicate assertively yet tactfully. Stick to the facts and avoid making assumptions or assigning blame.

Active listening is key to resolving conflicts effectively with your boss. Listen attentively to their perspective without interrupting or jumping to conclusions. Show empathy and seek to understand their concerns and motivations behind their actions. Practical Tip: Practice reflective listening by paraphrasing their statements to ensure you've understood them correctly. This demonstrates your commitment to understanding their viewpoint and fosters a sense of mutual respect.

Focus on finding mutually beneficial solutions to resolve conflicts with your boss. Collaborate on identifying practical steps to address the root causes of the conflict and prevent similar issues from arising in the future. Practical Tip: Brainstorm potential solutions together and be willing to compromise. Prioritize finding common ground and achieving a positive outcome that benefits both parties and enhances your working relationship.

Talk to them calmly and respectfully. Try to understand their side and share your concerns honestly. Listen to their feedback and be ready to compromise. If the issue continues, ask HR or a mediator for help. Stay professional and patient throughout the process.

In navigating conflicts with your boss and reaching a resolution, critical considerations include maintaining professionalism and respect, understanding your boss's perspective, active listening to identify underlying issues, proposing solutions collaboratively, seeking feedback for improvement, documenting agreements and follow-up actions, and building a positive and constructive relationship for future interactions.

Follow up is one of the most important and often overlooked aspects of successfully managing conflicts with your boss. In addition to demonstrating that you are actively implementing any feedback that was provided to you, it also shows your boss that you care about the relationship and your trajectory in the company. Often people in leadership positions are expected to do all of the monitoring and following up which is just another task that gets added to their already overstuffed calendar. By taking this task on yourself, you not only alleviate some of that stress from your boss (which they will notice) but you also position. yourself as someone who shows initiative and leadership skills and is valuable to the organization.