Entering the eye of the storm – how to deal with conflict at work

Conflict is something that is commonplace in all organisations and unfortunately there is no escape. There is no time for burying your head in the sand. With leadership comes conflict and an effective leader is someone who can identify, tackle and negotiate conflict before it turns toxic.

The ability to negotiate conflict resolution successfully is critical for a healthy business environment and is something that must become a staple in any leaders repertoire. This weeks post will tackle the conflict head on and provide you with a number of essential tips for how to deal with workplace conflict.
Tips for workplace conflict resolution

Tip #1 - Accept that conflict will always happen - Why not dealing with conflict isn’t the answer

Avoiding conflict in the workplace is a tactic that can lead to the breakdown of collaboration and communication of your team. The negative environment fostered as a result of an unresolved conflict can also result in a loss of creativity and productivity.

Tip #2 – Deal with issues quickly

Not dealing with issues when they arise often results in minor issues escalating into major ones. It is much easier to deal with issues at the beginning and establishes the manager/leader as an authority and respected figure in the office.

Tip #3 – Establish acceptable codes of behaviour

By establishing and communicating a framework of acceptable behaviour so that employees know exactly what constitutes accepted behaviour. Also by having a known formal disciplinary process can go a long way in preventing conflict in the first place. However, you should try and promote informal conflict resolution.

Tip #4 – Deal with all employees involved in the conflict equally

Do not get involved in office politics. Dealing with employees in the same manner can help to foster an environment of trust and respect.

Firefighting conflict calmly and swiftly is always the best solution to resolution. These are just a selection of points to consider that can help you tackle how you deal with and avoid workplace conflict.

Spinnaker 918 deliver a wide range of courses to provide business professionals with the knowledge, confidence and expertise to be successful in leadership and management roles. If you are interested in any of our training courses then contact us today at 0113 261 4503.