How To Resolve Conflicts At Work

Conflict can occur between colleagues, a team or between team members and leaders. If you're experiencing workplace conflict, learning how to resolve it can help you improve your communication skills and become more productive.

1. Clarify the source of conflict: Defining the cause will enable you to understand how the issue came about and help both parties consent to the disagreement. Obtain as much information as possible on each side’s outlook. Continue asking questions until you are confident that all the conflicting parties understand the issue.

2. Listen actively and let everyone have their say: Give the parties involved an opportunity to air their views and perceptions regarding the issue. Embrace a positive and assertive approach while in the meeting. If necessary, set ground rules. This approach will encourage both parties to articulate their thoughts openly and honestly, comprehend the causes of the conflict, and identify solutions.

3. Investigate the situation: After listening to the concerns of both parties, take time, and investigate the case. Do not prejudge or come up with a final verdict based on what you have. Dig deeper and learn more about the happenings, involved parties, issues, and how people feel. Have individual conversations with those involved and listen keenly to ensure you comprehend their viewpoints. You can summarise their statements and replicate them back to them. Also, try quickly finding any underlying conflict sources that may not be evident or noticeable.

4. Agree on the best solution and determine each party's responsibilities in the resolution: Find common ground and determine each party's responsibilities in resolving the conflict. Also, it is crucial to use this chance to identify the root cause and ensure this issue will not come about again.?

In Conclusion, conflict is part of our day-to-day lives. Ensure you take a proactive approach towards conflicts and implement policies to avoid a recurrence of already addressed issues.