You can follow several conflict resolution tips to arrive at a mutually agreeable solution to the problem when you are witnessing conflict at work, whether as upper management or as a co-worker. By staying calm and being direct, you can use these techniques to turn destructive conflict into a problem-solving opportunity that will eventually lead to a more productive workplace.
Never ignore the problem. While minor conflicts may blow over, there could still be bad feelings, or the problem may just fester until the next time. As soon as there are signs of contention, the conflict should be addressed and resolved.
Get to the heart of the matter. When there is a conflict between two parties, what may seem like workplace issues may boil down to a personality conflict, and what may seem like a minor issue could point to a larger disconnect between certain groups. Identify and agree on what the real problem is; only then can a true resolution be achieved.
Insist on communicating in a calm and direct manner from all sides. If discussions dissolve into negative name-calling and unproductive dialog, stop it immediately, and let everyone cool off before resuming.
Work toward resolution. Ask each side what they feel would be an appropriate resolution to the conflict. When you get an idea of what each party would accept, you can begin negotiating and compromising to bring both sides together.
Never let either party think you favor one side over the other. You should be an impartial judge in the conflict and a mediator rather than someone who has determined a course of action before hearing all the issues.
Get firm commitments. Once resolution is reached, make sure each party understands what happens next and their role in the resolution. Determine an exact time for follow-up to ensure that the resolution is still working for everyone and that no further adjustments need to be made. Once a harmonious workplace is re-established, productivity will increase, and employees will feel that their opinions have been heard.
 | Team conflict is inevitable, but, if you follow a few team conflict management strategies like sticking to the facts and keeping everyone focused on practical solutions instead of emotional opinions, your team will emerge stronger. |
What is one of the major sources of squabbles among employees? You might be surprised that it has little to do with your productivity and more to do with your basic comfort. That's right-the temperature of the office is key to workplace harmony. |
When conflict management styles clash, mixed messages are sent, and the situation may not be resolved in the most effective and timely manner. Tensions can be heightened, not resolved, but it doesn't have to be that way. |
Workplace conflict is commonplace, but managers who can incorporate certain types of conflict management strategies that work will soon be able to achieve their goals and minimize disruptions. |
When faced with employee conflict, managers can implement several of the following tips and strategies for the most satisfactory resolutions. |
