How to Solve a Conflict Between Employees

Although employers strive to prevent conflict in work environments by creating a positive and rewarding atmosphere, some conflicts are unavoidable. Employers who meet these types of challenges head-on can create a more positive work environment. Successfully solving employee conflicts allows all those involved to grow professionally and personally.

Instructions

Solving Employee Conflicts

1. Create and promote an open-door policy regarding employee conflict. To enforce the policy, train supervisors and managers on employee conflict policies, and how to recognize potential signs of conflict.

2. Address conflicts as soon they occur. Approach all employees involved and ask to discuss the issues in a private setting. Ignoring the problem may hinder job performance for the employees involved, as well as those around them.

3. Address the employees as a mediator. Explain company policies regarding conflict resolution to the employees so they understand all potential circumstances if the conflict cannot be resolved. After the employees understand how the organization addresses employee conflicts, allow the employees to discuss the conflict in a private setting.

4. When the employees feel they've resolved their issues, address each employee and ask if they can move on to a productive and positive work environment. Ask to meet with each employee within one week to ensure the conflict does not resurface.

Tips & Warnings

• If employees seem upset during private discussions, allow them to take a break from time to time before continuing discussions.

References

• University of Texas: Conflict Resolution
• University of Oklahoma: Resolving Workplace Conflict
• University of Colorado: Resolving Workplace Conflict

Resources

• USDA.gov: Handbook for Workplace Violence