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0 Despite everyone’s best efforts to work together in harmony, conflict can sometimes arise in the workplace and it can be difficult to know how to resolve it. A small misunderstanding or irritation which goes unchecked can escalate and become a major dispute, so it’s important that businesses know ways of dealing with conflict.
What are the different types of conflict?
There are two main types of workplace conflict:
Personality conflict – where individuals disagree about something and clash due to stress, frustration and anger.
Substantive conflict – a disagreement among group or team members over ideas, issues or tasks. This could include decisions made by company leaders about the direction the business is taking.
What causes workplace conflict?
Common causes of conflict in the workplace include competition over resources such as money, materials and time, unclear responsibilities and different interests.
Resolution Strategies
To quickly and effectively resolve conflict, it’s best to raise any issues at an early stage, before resentments deepen. It is important to manage your emotions, stay calm and explain your position clearly. According to the Federation of Small Businesses managers should plan before having a difficult conversation, make eye contact and ask for specific evidence in order to understand concerns.
It may be necessary to use an intermediary, who can help negotiate and ensure impartiality. If you are a company based in Cheltenham business advisory services such as www.randall-payne.co.uk/services/business-advisory/ have a wealth of experience and can advise.
Mediation is key to resolving workplace conflict, as long as both parties agree to engage and that the issue is not a disciplinary matter.
Other tips include being an active listener, showing empathy and acknowledging any criticism without getting angry.
Don’t give up
The conflict may not be resolved in the first instance, so it’s important to put more time in if necessary. If someone feels they have not been listened to or have been unfairly treated, give them another opportunity to explain their position. Establishing effective conflict resolution in your workplace ensures a positive work environment where everybody thrives.
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