Managing Conflict
Conflicts will sometimes arise, even on the most successful teams.
Conflicts can arise for various reasons, including:
- Poor communication
- Stress
- Misunderstandings or lack of knowledge regarding expectations or policies
- Rumors and gossip
- Skill deficits and lack of training
- Differing communication styles or personality conflicts
Most issues can be eased or prevented altogether before they become full-blown conflicts. Workplace conflict can turn a workplace toxic when not handled correctly. It can lead to resentment among staff members and a decrease in the overall function of the center.
UC San Diego recommends these strategies for resolving workplace conflicts:
- Talk with the other person: Make sure to find a time and location that works for both of you where you will not be interrupted.
- Focus on behavior and events, not on personalities: Make sure to focus on the event and not the person. Try using the phrasing, “When this happens…”
- Listen carefully: Use active listening techniques from the previous section to reassure the other person that they are being heard.
- Identify points of agreement and disagreement: Pinpoint where you both agree and disagree, then fine-tune until you both agree on the conflict.
- Prioritize the areas of conflict: Decide what needs to be resolved for both parties to walk away resolved.
- Develop a plan to work on each conflict: If needed, plan follow-up meetings.
- Follow through on your plan: Maintain a let’s work it out attitude.
- Build on your success: Celebrate progress.
For the main article Employee Relations, CLICK HERE
For the article Building a Team Environment, CLICK HERE
For the article Encouraging Effective Communication, CLICK HERE
For the article Boosting Motivation, CLICK HERE
