Stuck in the Middle? Here’s how to Navigate Workplace Conflict

As people, we all function differently.???

From differing opinions to diverse personalities, our heads are bound to clash sometimes, especially at work.?

This is inevitable, but how you navigate through this conflict is what’s important. Your strategy of conflict resolution will inform the productive, collaborative environment you want to foster moving forward.??

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What is Workplace Conflict??

Workplace conflict can involve simple disagreements, or full-on clashes between employees, or between employees and management.??

Conflict often arises from a difference in opinions, values, or personalities. It can also arise due to workload, different treatment, or unclear communication.?

Disagreements are normal, but unresolved issues can build tension, and create an unproductive, or even potentially unsafe environment for employees. This can negatively affect performance, morale, and team dynamics. Overall, it can make people dread going to work, which is the opposite of what you want.??

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6 Strategies to Navigate Workplace Conflict?

When conflict arises, it’s essential to address issues in a timely and constructive manner, as this will maintain a healthy and happy work environment. Here are some strategies to consider:?

1. Address Issues Early?

Try to address issues early on, before they fester any longer. This can prevent escalation, as well as prevent the same problems from arising between other employees in the long term.??

Talk to the affected parties and start a simple dialogue that addresses what happened and when, who was involved, why it happened, and how it could be solved.??

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2. Encourage Open and Direct Communication?

When mediating, encourage an honest, but respectful conversation between the conflicting parties. Work through understanding different perspectives, and try to reach common ground.??

It is also beneficial to avoid taking sides, as this can assign blame.??

3. Collaborate on Problem-Solving?

Collaborate with your management team to work towards addressing the affected parties’ concerns, and discuss ways to accommodate employees moving forward. This could range from simply reassigning responsibilities, to disciplinary action if needed.??

4. Active Listening?

Ensure all parties feel heard by exercising empathy, and asking open-ended questions to further understand different perspectives and issues. When emotions are high, a bit of compassion goes a long way in making people feel comfortable.?

5. Set Clear Expectations?

Although you want to promote open communication and problem-solving, at the end of the day you have a responsibility to uphold company policies.?

Make sure to clearly communicate workplace policies and expectations. This will work towards preventing future misunderstandings, as well as preventing conflict from worsening or becoming more frequent. It will also inform any disciplinary action that needs to be taken.??

6. Seek External Assistance?

If a certain conflict is too difficult to resolve, consider outsourcing specialised experts to help settle situations. This will create a neutral environment with a third-party mediator, and inform decision-making moving forward.?

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The Bottom Line?

Successfully managing workplace conflict leads to improved relationships and increased productivity. Having effective problem-solving skills can also reduce turnover, as a healthy environment is a happy environment.??

Navigating people’s differences can be hard, but by addressing conflict effectively, your business will retain its efficiency and be sure to see long-term success and growth.?

On the other hand, sometimes it’s also okay to ask for help.?

At People Associates, our expertise lies in mediated problem-solving that enables us to facilitate constructive dialogue and find common ground, minimising conflict and maximising positive outcomes. We’ll provide you with clear and concise advice, empowering you to make informed decisions!?

Why risk going through it alone when you can take advantage of expertise, without the high cost of legal fees??

Want a free consultation? Flick us a message on our website – or contact Lisa Oakley at [email protected] or on 027 573 5483.?

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