Workplace conflicts are inevitable, but it must not bring down morale or effect productivity. Disagreement at work can affect every one of us at some point in our lives and often it is just because of people’s stress levels increasing. You can’t avoid conflicts at work, but you can resolve them. Here are a few useful tips for resolving conflicts at work.
1. Listen
It’s important to listen to the other person, understand their feelings and try to see things from their point of view. Sometimes we forget how other people might be feeling, however, listening and acknowledging your coworker’s feelings can help you to resolve a conflict.
2. Think
Think about what you can do about the situation. Maybe it will resolve itself after a good rest. Think about it. Your coworker might come back to work the next day and say, “I’m sorry. I wasn’t right.” But if that is not the case, don’t dwell on the conflict. Disagreement at work can become very stressful, so try to resolve it as soon as possible.
3. Stay firm but fair
One of the most important tips to follow when you are trying to resolve a conflict at work is to be firm but fair. Be confident about what you want and stay always positive. Being positive at work will show that you are flexible and approachable. And don’t forget about smile!
4. Watch your body language
When speaking to someone you are having issues with, try not to seem hostile. Make sure you watch your facial expressions and tone. It’s astonishing what others can pick up from you. Take a few minutes to calm down, if you need. Take a few deep breaths or go for a short walk. It’s astonishing what time away from an awkward situation can do.
5. Talk
Talking to a person face to face will make all the difference. Sometimes communication via email can mean that there can be some misunderstanding, because it’s hard to convey tone via email. So if you can speak to the person face to face, avoid email communication, just go and talk. People tend to be more amiable when you go and speak to them face to face.
6. Avoid gossip
There are people who just like to gossip and who like to fuel the fire when they see a conflict happening. If they try and have a gossip session with you about someone try not to get involved and simply change the subject. They will soon know that you don’t like to talk about your coworkers behind their backs.
7. Speak to a superior
If you’ve already tried all mentioned above ways to resolve the conflict and you feel that intervention may be needed, it’s better to speak to a superior. If it is making your life intolerable, sometimes it’s a good idea to tell your boss in an attempt to resolve the conflict.
Many of us have encountered conflicts, whether at school or work, and it can even be character building. But it’s essential to be happy and healthy at work, because you spend a lot of time at work! Keep these tips in mind and if you have some other tips feel free to share them.