3 Ways to Resolve Conflict in the Workplace
Whether you’re a business owner or not, dealing with conflict in the workplace is as inevitable as paying taxes. While it’s an uncomfortable situation to be in, there are ways to reach a solution–without losing your cool. Let’s talk about 3 ways to resolve conflict in the workplace, all through the power of great communication. Ready to dive in?
- Acknowledge Quickly
One of the biggest mistakes you can make in dealing with conflict is waiting too long to address it. There is a window of opportunity that closes fairly quickly, so you’ve got to act fast. Acknowledging the issues rather than ignoring them or avoiding them is a surefire way to set the appropriate tone for the conversation. It also shows that you are invested in the happiness of your employees, and reduces the chances of these feelings brewing into something far more difficult to manage.
Once you’ve acknowledged the issue, it’s time to start asking questions–and lots. The types of questions you ask, however, need to be varied. Gather the parties involved separately and ask open-ended and closed-ended questions. Get the facts as well as opinions. The more information you can gather, the better the chances for a positive outcome.
2. Levelset on Expectations
How do you make sure the lines of communication are not blurred and that everyone on your team has an equal opportunity to be heard? You have to manage expectations. After you’ve gone through the steps of acknowledging the conflict and getting your questions answered, you’ll need to outline what is needed from all parties involved.
Being clear with your expectations as a manager can also help proactively fight conflict in the first place. This allows your staff to be comfortable with the work environment and what is needed from them, and this clarity can also make it all the more challenging for conflict to brew. The same can be said for your employees, as well: In addition to letting your staff know what you expect from them, take the time to understand what your employees might need from you. When everyone feels comfortable voicing their opinions and ideas, the workplace is that much more pleasant a place to be.
3. Recognize Your Differences–and Celebrate Them
We’re all going to have differentiating points of view, and that’s one of the great things about life. But there are points when varying opinions and working styles can clash. In order to keep the peace in your workplace, it’s important to recognize and respect these differences. One employee may see the same situation as another employee and have a completely opposing interpretation of it. That’s perfectly fine. This can lead to misunderstandings; but if your team is aware that folks are going to view things differently than them, then understanding can take hold. We’ve got to recognize that differences are a way of life and they’re not going anywhere. Acknowledging them is key to conflict resolution.
Conflict in a small business is inevitable. But with the right strategies in place and a solid understanding of how to reach a resolution, cooler heads will prevail. Keep up with the latest in all things small business by stopping over at the Financial Pantry each week. We’ve got our ears to the ground on the latest trends, regulations, and industry news that you need to keep your business moving in the right direction.