How To Effectively Manage Workplace Conflict

By Nicholas Dillon

Workplace conflict can be a challenging consequence for professionals.  For some, managing conflict may come natural and for others; it is the taboo of situations that they want to avoid.  Given our current economy, workplace conflict is on the rise.  A recent poll indicated that human resources spend anywhere from 25-30 percent of their time mediating employee conflicts.  If not dealt with, workplace conflict can lead to harassment, intimidation, and even workplace violence. 

It should always be your objective to not let workplace conflict escalate to extreme measures.  Understanding how to deal with workplace challenges and disagreements will help you avoid the stress and tension that comes along for the ride. 

There are several different approaches that we can take to resolving workplace conflict.  As a Corporate Trainer, I have facilitated several workshops on this topic and have consistently suggested that "Collaboration" is the best way to resolve conflict.  The other options for resolving workplace conflict include avoidance, compromise, & accommodate.  Don't get me wrong, depending on your personality, you may find that these other options work best for you and your situation.  However, if the objective is to go for a "Win-WIN" approach and not walk away feeling as though you gave up something, then "Collaboration" is the best option.

Collaboration requires all parties involved to come up with the best solution that works.  The point being is that no one feels as though they are not being heard but rather that they are contributing to a positive outcome that everyone feels supportive on. 

How well you understand conflict resolution can have as much or more impact as your communication and professional skills.  Here are a few suggestions that will help you deal effectively with conflict when it arises in the workplace. 

• Know your own personality and communication style. Everyone does not communicate the same and we all have different personalities that sometimes clash with one another. It does not mean that you cannot work collaboratively together. It means you have to be aware of yourself and who you are working with prior to engagement. It helps to level the playing field when communication does commence.  
• If you are dealing with a problem involving a co-worker:
• Relate the facts (facts are not personal)
• Give your interpretation of the facts (your meaning)
• Explain how you feel about it (as it relates to the problem)
• Listen to the other person's response. You are listening for how the other person feels, sees, and interpret the situation of conflict. This is critical because you may find out that it is just simply a misunderstanding that could be cleared up right here.
• Ask yourself the following questions: Is it possible to change the current situation or collaborate together on a common solution to the problem. If change cannot happen, is it possible for you to accept that as the only outcome?
• Make sure that you remember that you are in the workplace and professionalism is always priority because you want to protect your character, integrity, and future position within the organization. Remember your image is priceless. Watch your verbal and nonverbal communication. It includes your language, tone, and demeanor.
• When a collaborative agreement has been reached to resolve workplace conflict, make sure it is really what you want. Avoid gossip, unspoken expectations, undisclosed thoughts, and hidden agendas both before and after the discussion.
• Recognize that sometimes you might need a mediator to help keep the objectives at the table. This is common when employees are unable to shake an emotional reaction that results from conflict. During mediation, you might be enlightened by the third party observation and views that you may have overlooked due to emotionally blocked clarity.

As you continue your professional work experience, remember to inquire about the organization's professional boundaries and clear expectations on conflict resolution.  Make sure that the workplace culture aligns with your core values and beliefs so that you do not struggle with internal conflict.  Choose your battles when it comes to workplace conflict.  You may find that some things are not worth giving your energy to.  A conflict-free workplace would be beneficial to us all.  However, it is not just the reality most professionals deal with.  You will have to learn to expect conflict at some point.  Just remember healthy conflict fosters creativity and innovation.  Are you ready for the challenge?

Nicholas Dillon, is a member of BlackLifeCoaches.net, a certified life coach and counselor.  To learn more about his practice, visit his website at NicholasDillon.com.