How To Deal With Conflict At Work

Hello!

Your Workplace Culture Guide, is here, for the first time on a Leap Day!?

This month, we dive into a subject that is usually avoided - managing conflict. In a world filled with diverse perspectives, conflicts are inevitable, at all levels. How best can we approach and resolve conflicts to build harmonious relationships at work?

First, we need to learn to embrace conflict. Many of us, myself included, avoid confrontations at work. Rather than seeing conflict as a roadblock, it will help to view it as a chance for understanding and growth. If we approach conflicts with an open mind, we have the potential to strengthen relationships and come up with creative solutions. Keeping an open mind also involves acknowledging various perspectives and eventually learning from them.

On the other hand, several people highlighted the tendency to agree with others to avoid conflict. One member of our community recounted a scenario from her team’s standup meeting, where the group was deliberating on a decision. While most people aligned on a particular opinion, she and another team member had different views, resulting in disagreement. While it might have been simpler for her to follow the majority’s opinion for ‘the sake of peace’, she chose not to. Instead, she voiced her concerns and shared her suggestions leading the team to explore multiple options and eventually make a better decision.?

Without her speaking out, the team would have gone with the easiest decision which may not necessarily be the best. As you know, some of the best ideas have come when people brainstorm and challenge each other's opinions, respectfully.?

Managing conflict effectively means being open and honest when talking about issues. Companies that encourage transparency and openness make it easier for employees to speak up and share different opinions. On the other hand, in unhealthy environments where communication is poor, conflicts are harder to resolve. Creating a culture that values diversity, makes everyone feel included, and respects others' opinions helps prevent conflicts from getting worse. In such places, people feel comfortable expressing themselves without fear.

As we continue our work in 2024, the best way to approach conflicts is with empathy, and a willingness to learn and find common ground.

As always, here are our job openings in February.

Until next month, happy cultur-ing.

Hikmah ??

with

Your Workplace Culture Guide.