How to Keep Yourself Out of Workplace Drama?

The definition of drama is emotional waste in the workplace. It doesn't need to be a fight. It may be constant venting, gossiping, judging, and unnecessary arguments. It's everything that drains your energy in vain.

If you are a good performer, focused on your goals and delivery, and satisfied with your job, you do not want to spend precious productive hours of your day in workplace drama. And the last thing you need is to find yourself stuck between two people while they play 'power games' and defend their interests. In cases like this, I always advise not to take sides and ensure open communications with the engagement of all parties.

I also asked masterminds to give their best tips on remaining neutral in workplace arguments, conflicts, and drama. And here are six answers to the question. They have much in common, sometimes contradicting, but all are helpful tips.

Remain Silent

It is hard to remain neutral in workplace arguments. It is human nature to take sides and wants to defend those who you feel are being unjustly treated. However, if you wish to remain neutral in these situations, it is important to stay silent and not take part in the discussion.

This does not mean that you should ignore the situation and pretend that it is not happening, but rather that you should refrain from taking part in the discussion and letting others know your opinions. By remaining silent and not taking part in the discussion, you can stay neutral and avoid taking sides.

Matthew Ramirez , CEO, Paraphrase Tool

Listen Objectively and Offer a Solution

When there are workplace arguments or conflicts, it's fundamental to remain neutral to ensure fairness and objectivity and maintain professional relationships with all parties involved.

Therefore, the best practice is to listen objectively to both sides of the story without taking sides or making judgments. Then, offer a feasible solution and help both parties reach a fair and beneficial resolution for everyone involved.

Natalia Brzezinska , Marketing and Outreach Manager, ePassportPhoto

Focus on Facts and Objective Information

Focus on facts and objective information rather than personal opinions or emotions. By staying objective, you can help defuse the situation and prevent it from escalating.

Here are some specific steps you can take to remain neutral:

• Listen actively: Listen carefully to each person's perspective and make sure you understand their point of view.
• Focus on the issue: Keep the conversation focused on the issue at hand and avoid getting sidetracked by personal attacks or emotions.
• Stick to the facts: Base your responses on objective information rather than personal opinions or emotions.
• Avoid taking sides: Stay neutral and avoid taking sides, even if you have a personal relationship with one or more of the individuals involved.

By following these steps, you can remain neutral in workplace arguments and conflicts while helping to defuse the situation and find a constructive resolution.

Damar W , Writer, Explainerd

Remove Yourself from the Conversation Until Emotions Dial Down

My favorite strategy for dealing with a workplace argument is to remove myself from the conversation until the emotions dial down a bit, sometimes for a couple of hours or even a few days. I think that it's hard to have a constructive conversation if someone is frustrated, sad, or easily irritable, so it's best to wait a bit and then engage in conflict resolution once the right time for that comes.

Aleksandra Jovicic , Freelance SEO Specialist, Aleksandra Beka

Practice Active Listening

One way to remain neutral in workplace conflicts is to practice active listening. This means giving your full attention to both sides of the argument and seeking to understand their perspectives without judging or taking sides.

Avoid interrupting or making assumptions and, instead, ask clarifying questions to gain a deeper understanding of the situation. Then, reflect on what you've heard to show that you've genuinely listened to and empathized with both parties. By remaining neutral and actively listening, you can help de-escalate conflicts and promote a more positive and productive work environment.

Jefferson McCall , Co-founder and HR Head, TechBullish

Stay Neutral and Find a Win-Win Solution

One of the most effective ways to stay neutral in a workplace conflict is to understand both sides of the issue. This means actively listening to each party's perspective, asking clarifying questions, and avoiding taking sides.

By understanding the motivations and concerns of each party, you can develop a more nuanced view of the conflict and advice that helps create a mutually beneficial "win-win" solution.

Will Baker , Founder, Skirtings R Us

Share with us what are your tips for staying out of workplace drama?