When a conflict arises at work many of us would rather just avoid working with the person again than really taking time to find a resolution.
As challenging as it often is, dealing with conflict head on will result in a more pleasant work environment for you, the other party and your colleagues whilst also helping you develop critical conflict resolution skills.
Here are some top tips to help you resolve a difficult situation:
- Start A Dialogue
Without speaking to the other person you won’t get very far in resolving a conflict.
Judge the severity of the conflict, if appropriate arrange a date and time to speak with the person in a working environment where you won’t be interrupted.
- Avoid Pointing The Finger
This applies to all conflict resolution, whether at home or at work. Don’t start sentences with ‘You always’ or ‘When you’ instead opt for ‘When this happens.’ Don’t speak generically, give specific examples.
- Speak Equally
This conversation is as much about the other person as it is you. Listen attentively, don’t sit and think about what you might say next.
Give the person your full attention and when they are finished ask questions to clarify their views if necessary..
- It’s Not All Conflict
During the course of your conversation you will find points that both of you agree on, highlight these.
They are just as important as the points you disagree on, which will most certainly come to the table during the course of the conversation.
When speaking about the areas you agree on, take this opportunity to build a rapport you might have otherwise never had.
This can make the rest of the conversation flow, each of you will be more willing to compromise to resolve the conflict. There may even be a few smiles exchanged!
- Everyone Is Different
You won’t always agree on everything with every person. Focus on the major areas of conflict which are most important to both of you.
There will be fundamental issues that brought you to this conversation, don’t allow them to become lost in the smaller disagreements.
Once you have your focus, clearly articulate your views in a non-accusatory way and allow the other person to do the same. Focus on facts rather than opinion and situations rather than personalities.
- Work Together
Speak about the conflict and strategise together on what actions you could both take to resolve this and avoid it happening again.
Conflict is rarely resolved entirely during one conversation and your relationship will need a little repairing. Arrange to meet up again to discuss your progress together.
- We’re Okay Now
Don’t cancel any scheduled follow up meetings because you suddenly feel like your relationship is repaired and conflict resolved after one conversation.
It’s really important that you stick to your follow ups, even if the conflict feels a life-time away, this is an opportunity to learn and grow together.
Workplace conflict is an everyday occurence, we’re all different and this is often to the benefit of the company who employs us.
Brushing conflict under the carpet can damage morale for many, not just those directly involved.