How to Handle Workplace Conflict
How to Handle Workplace Conflict
Conflict is bound to happen because; people sometimes disagree.
The big question is: How well do you handle conflicts?
Some people don't handle conflicts very well because they come-on too strong; they say too much and they make the situation worse.
On the other hand, some people are too passive and don't say anything.
The best way forward is to find the middle ground between "coming on too strong" and "not saying enough".
Learn how to manage conflict situations logically, confidently and quickly.
How to Perfect your conflict management skills
The first step is to realize that Conflicts come in two basic types.
- Conflicts that based on poor communication.
- Conflicts based on poor behaviour.
Managing conflict based on poor communication.
Many conflicts are based on poor communication that later lead to misunderstandings. Then the misunderstandings cause "wrong actions" and therefore conflict situations.
Your aim is to minimise the chances of conflict by specifying your message and doing everything possible to eliminate misunderstandings.
Define all ambiguous messages, such as "I need that document, ASAP" or "Please make sure you come appropriately dressed".
Use quantitative, numerical language, whenever possible. Put numbers on your message. "I need that document, ASAP, no later than 6pm today."
Identify time lines so that there is no confusion about dates and times.
Always try to make your language positive, friendly, assertive and exact. Beware of unintended negative commands such as:
- "Don't panic!"
- "Don't worry"
- "Don't be late, tomorrow"
Give positive commands such as, "Stay calm". "Make sure you are there before 9 o'clock".
Don't allow your message to have multiple possible meanings.
You need to make sure that there is only ONE possible meaning derivable from your message.
What are the correct principles of rational conflict management?
Use your sense of logic and reason to resolve conflict; don't use avoidance, nor high emotions such as anger or upset.
When in conflict, never criticise their personality. Instead, comment only on their behaviour.
When in conflict, use only factual specific language. Don't use emotionally charged, opinionated, derogatory or accusational language.
If you can, always prepare your message in advance. Think about what you will say, and think about what you will refrain from saying.
Make sure you get the time and place right. Don't have the conflict in front of a big audience.
Don't argue about the past; you can't change the past. If you are going to argue, then make sure that you are arguing about the future.
You can change the future. You can't change the past.
Be very aware of your voice tones and body language. Don't point your finger at anyone.
When in conflict, never shout at people. Instead, speak slowly and calmly with low voice tones.
Please, never swear or make threats. Instead, make some logical suggestions as to the best way out of the conflict situation.
If the person makes any move towards doing what you want, then give immediate praise for any positive move, on their part.
If you have gained an agreement; don't linger. Leave!
When in conflict keep control of your word.
Conflict Management Training Course Quiz
People disagree, so conflict needs to be resolved quickly and without fuss. Try our Conflict Management Course quiz to discover where your conflict skills are strongest, and where they are not so strong.
Conflict Management Training
Conflict is inevitable, because people disagree. Therefore, you must be able to handle conflict situations effectively. You must know how to be assertive, clear and professional (not emotional, upset and angry) whilst in conflict. If you want to learn more on how to achieve this, please click here to see our conflict management training.
About the Author: Chris Farmer
Chris Farmer is the founder of the Corporate Coach Group and has many years’ experience in training leaders and managers, in both the public and private sectors, to achieve their organisational goals, especially during tough economic times. He is also well aware of the disciplines and problems associated with running a business.
Over the years, Chris has designed and delivered thousands of training programmes and has coached and motivated many management teams, groups and individuals. His training programmes are both structured and clear, designed to help delegates organise their thinking and, wherever necessary, to improve their techniques and skills.
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Further Reading in Conflict Management and Handling Difficult People
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How to Deal with Lazy People at Work
Working with a lazy person is not only frustrating, it can also mean that you have to take on their work as well as your own. Follow these key points to get them to do their share of the work.
Read Article > -
How to Deal With Difficult Employees
Whether difficult employees disagree with our current plan, or their behaviour is challenging, they should be treated according to the principles of reason. We examine the steps that should be taken when dealing with difficult people.
Read Article > -
How to Handle Conflict Situations
It is important that managers are able to handle conflict in an assertive, yet positive and professional manner. In order to do that they need to know the principles governing rational conflict management skills.
Read Article > -
Conflict Resolution Skills
Disputes within your organisation can be costly. Therefore you need to have a number of skills, including listening and questioning skills, together with negotiation and emotional management skills, in order to quickly find resolutions.
Read Article > -
Dispute Resolution
People disagree. But, whatever the cause of a disagreement, a manager must learn how to handle it professionally, before it escalates into conflict and interferes with the business. Here are five common strategies for resolving disputes.
Read Article >
Looking for Conflict Management Training?
If you're looking to develop your Conflict Management and Handling Difficult People Skills, you may find this Conflict Management Training Course beneficial:
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