How to Resolve Conflicts at Work

Having to lug yourself out of bed to spend hours on mindless tasks for work is a pain in itself, unless you are one of the lucky few people in this world who enjoys your job.  Add in a bit of employee tension, and the job you are tired of can turn into a job you truly despise. 

If you want to feel comfortable at work, it is important to get along with all of the personnel at the office.  If you find yourself in the middle of a conflict, use these tips to resolve them peacefully.

Step 1: Identify the Real Issue

First, figure out what the conflict is really about.  Is your boss mad at you because you didn’t turn in an important project on time?  Does your co-worker Michelle resent the new receptionist because she was hired for her looks instead of any applicable skill?  Is every woman in the office mad because they all want to take you out for a date but are jealous of one another – if this is the case, then don’t wake up because you are dreaming! 

Typically, arguments are caused by a lack of communication.  In order to act appropriately you need to get to the root of the problem and figure out what the real issue is.

Step 2: Approach the Situation With Tact

Try not to confront anyone in public.  Even if you are right, the person will likely ignore logic and be offended that you put them down in front of their peers.  This can lead to even more resentment.

Hold an impromptu meeting in a quiet closed room, and clarify your intentions to all parties.   Even if you can’t agree on a particular issue, you can still chip away at the problem bit by bit.  If you are arguing about a decision that needs to be made, leave the final say to the person who is responsible for that role.  Let the boss take the rap for a bad call.  If you’re the boss, then establish your authority and make the final decision.

If you can’t come to a consensus then offer a compromise.  Sacrificing part of your idea may be more beneficial than spending hours arguing.

Step 3: Recognize That People Have Feelings

With any argument, the problem may be insignificant, it’s the pride and frustration of the individuals involved that escalate the tension.  If you are in this position, then conceding to the other party may be more beneficial regardless of who is right.  You will end the argument and the other person will look small-minded for making a big deal out of a small issue.

Always be calm when trying to extinguish a conflict.  Speak in a soft but firm tone.  This works especially well when people are frantic or emotional.  Tranquility will rub off in hectic situations.  Never scream and yell or you’ll just encourage the other side to yell louder.

Step 4: Try to See the Other Person’s Point of View

One of the best ways to resolve conflict is to put yourself in your opposition’s shoes.  Try to understand their point of view – they may have a legitimate reason to argue, but might be expressing it wrong.  Ask yourself what you would do in their position and why they are reacting that way.

At the end of the day, understand that conflict is a natural part of life and thus it is common in any workplace.  Try to take arguments with a grain of salt and move past conflict with the intention of improving your goals as a business.