In a healthy workplace, there can be vigorous discussions and strongly-held differing points of view but differences are talked through and resolved. People are consulted and their views are taken into account. Communication is open and clear and if a conflict arises, there are ways to resolve it. Differences of opinion and approach are normal but if they are not managed they can affect employees and the organisation’s well-being.
Conflict can arise when:
- People are under stress at work or home
- When there are changes taking place in the organisation or the team
- When external and internal pressures are impacting individuals and the team
- When poor communication has led to misunderstandings
When conflict is not resolved:
- Individuals are distressed and their mental and physical well-being can be affected
- There can be increased absenteeism
- Working relationships can be broken and team morale lowered
- The conflict can create factions and affect productivity
- The organisation’s reputation can be affected and there can be difficulties with recruitment and retention.
Things you can do when there is workplace conflict:
- Try to have a conversation with the other person and listen to what they are saying.
- You may both have been making assumptions and a good discussion might allow you to understand the situation better.
- Try to acknowledge and respect the other party’s right to have a different point of view.
- Try to see the conflict from a neutral point of view. Think about the other perspective.
- Think about whether it is helpful to blame or argue about being right.
- Think about what the conflict is doing to you, and possibly to your family and colleagues.
- Consider feelings – how much do your feelings and the other person’s feeling about the issue have to do with the conflict?
- Focus on the problem, not the person.
- Think about what you and the other person want. If you follow this through to a win/lose outcome, what do you stand to lose? Do you have any common ground? Is there any room for compromise?
- Would it be helpful to involve a neutral person to help you work through the issues?
- Make sure you get personal support during this difficult time by talking to someone you trust and using the resources in your workplace
- Look after your health by exercising, eating well and enjoying recreational activities
