How to Handle Manager Conflict
It is inevitable that there will at times be conflict within the confines of the business environment. While this fact is typically attributed to employees without direct reports, managers can often experience these run-ins on occasion as well. Disagreements that involve managers can feel like a clash of the titans, but should be objectified to bring about swift resolution.
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Instructions
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Reduce the need to compete. If you are feuding with another manager, reminding yourself as well as the other manager in a civil and respectful manner that your purpose is not to compete can help calm the situation. Doing this should serve the purpose of refocusing of you on your job responsibility. State that you are here to be an example to other employees rather than to step on toes.
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Involve a neutral party. Despite your best efforts, you may not be able to resolve conflict between managers on your own. This is when it is time to bring in a mediator to help oversee the process of communication. Often this will be another peer or a higher manager who can officiate communication between the two parties. Mediation can be an effective way to maintain open communication with respect and civility.
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Approach the situation early with an open mind. While you may not be in the mood to interact or be diplomatic, confronting conflict early, especially between two leadership factions is important. Putting off conflict resolution will only allow it to grow into a worse problem in most situations. Remaining open to suggestion and communication early will help stave a problem before it progresses.
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Identify the problem. A third-party mediator is best suited to identify the problem in a situation if managers are not willing to interact with complete responsibility. Identifying the problem is an integral part of conflict resolution that requires careful listening skills. Through respect of each other's boundaries and differences after identification, the process of compromise can begin.
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Come to an agreeable compromise. Most confrontation between two managers will not be black and white when deciphering. Compromising is often a happy medium that will allow each faction to maintain dignity on terms that are acceptable. After the compromise has been made, place a set of guidelines in place to prevent similar conflict from occurring.
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Tips & Warnings
Remember that everyone will not be completely rational in each situation, once a conflict has been resolved; refrain from holding grudges to allow for an optimal business environment.
If you are mediating, keep the managers focused on problem-solving rather than the conflict itself by soliciting input on ways to fix the situation.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit two businesswomen in an office environment. image by endostock from Fotolia.com
