Resolving Conflict at your workplace

When it comes to communication John Maxwell says, " Communications are not about us, they're about others" in one of his book Everyone Communicates Few Connect. Communication is indeed more about making connections. We need to communicate to our Peers, Colleagues, Direct Reports and Executives every day at our workplace. The mode of communicating being internal, external, in-person or virtual, verbal or non-verbal, there are chances we often come across conflicts.

Conflicts are an inevitable part of work and one cannot deny it. It can have a negative impact on your task and personality, sometimes even costing you too way much. However, with the ability to handle and resolve it effectively, you can eliminate many of the disguised problems that it brought to the surface. So here I talk about a few ideas that can help you resolve your conflicts in a peaceful manner at your workplace.

First Communication is very vital during the time of Conflict: We often mistake and mix up the conflicts with feelings and tend to take things personally. However, the best way to resolve conflict is having communication, resolving the disagreement productively and leave the relationship intact. Following these five steps:

1. Active listening: Many of the conflicts arises as we are not ready to listen but instead put our ways ahead before the other person could forward their ideas. So active listening will help you to get an idea what the other person is thinking about and of. Try to get a clue by listening patiently
2. Do not react: Reaction might end up taking things to the personal level. So here have control over your emotions. Do not forget the respect part, it's very important that you choose your words wisely while you communicate and not end upon being disrespectful.
3. Respond: After listening to the other side, agree upon the issue. The other side might have a different interest, try to get to their point of view. Be courteous and discuss matters constructively.
4. Present your Facts: Usually, when things are beyond your reach, it's very important that you gather facts and present on the basis of it. As facts speak more than a person's perception it can create an impact where you can be in a common point.
5. Come for the Final Solution: Eventually, when you agree upon the issue, you can mutually come to a midpoint seeking for a final solution that you both agree upon. Be open to the other side idea and reach out jointly. This way a conflict can be resolved even when you have a difference in opinions and views.

The reason for conflict may be due to different leadership, culture and work style as the change of norms, customs and styles can be challenging. However, we can always apply the 3S' by John Maxwell; Keep it Simple, Say it Slow and Have a Smile !

? Better communication always helps and impact your performance. Unresolved conflicts may become a snowball leaving an unhealthy impact on your social and emotional health. On the contrary, you can use it to deepen your connection with others, build greater trust and respect, improve teamwork and help in problem-solving.