How to Handle Conflict & Resolution in the Workplace

A team effort can be easily derailed by badly handled conflict.

Since the workplace is filled with relationships built on necessity rather than individual compatibility, it is likely you will face conflict with a coworker at some point in your career no matter what job you hold. Unlike a minor dispute, conflicts can result in a high stress situation made even worse by clashing personalities who feel threatened, whether that threat is perceived or real. How you handle this conflict can affect the workplace environment both beneficially or detrimentally. Use the opportunity to hone your problem-solving skills as well as demonstrate leadership ability.

Instructions

1. Collect yourself so that you can objectively consider how the conflict arose and any part you played in it. Taking this time out will help you approach the conflict with a clearer head. Put yourself in the other person's shoes. Let empathy take the place of anger or resentment; understand your coworker's motivation so you do not jump to negative conclusions.

2. Address the conflict directly with your coworker rather than complain to other colleagues. Confrontation can be uncomfortable, but unresolved conflict creates unnecessary stress as it festers. Cut the problem off before it involves more people and angrier emotions.

3. Communicate respectfully and professionally. Leave your emotions out of your dialogue. Be mindful of the words you choose and your body language. Curb any accusatory language and keep to the issue at hand without rolling your eyes or crossing your arms.

4. Listen to the other person's point of view. Keep an open mind and allow yourself to hear the feelings being conveyed rather than just the information. Ask questions rather than assume.

5. Don't take the conflict personally; instead of working toward being "right," work toward a resolution. Find a middle ground. Ask your coworker his opinion how to resolve the conflict, and offer your own based on what you learned through the conversation.

6. Forgive and move on. Resentment is a personal byproduct of the conflict that will undermine your professionalism with this coworker in the future. Once you have cleared the air and reached a compromise then let the issue go, especially if you've agreed to disagree.

Tips & Warnings

• Find a mediator if you are unable to reach an agreeable compromise.

• Fight fair. Do not use this as an excuse to unload a litany of personal grievances you've allowed to build over time. Keep your focus goal-oriented in the present.

References

• Med Central: Learn How to Handle Conflict in the Workplace and Beyond
• Help Guide: Conflict Resolution Skills
• Boston: 8 Tips for Handling Workplace Conflict