How to Deal With Conflicts at Work
- 1). Shrug off small issues. Conflict is inevitable, and you don't need to address every annoyance or irritation. Co-workers and bosses have bad days too, and their shortness or abrupt attitude can result from work-related pressures. Put yourself in their shoes and pick your battles.
- 2). Do a self-examination to see if you play a role in conflict. Issues in the workplace can arise in response to your behavior. Listen to complaints made by your co-workers, and then take an honest look at yourself. Work to improve habits or patterns that contribute to trouble in the workplace.
- 3). Address the issue before you lose your cool. Serious conflicts can impact team morale and trigger a major blowout between co-workers. If the problem doesn't resolve itself, discuss the issue in private with your co-worker(s). Explain how you feel, and then allow co-workers to express themselves.
- 4). Speak professionally and avoid placing blame. The way you approach the meeting with your co-worker can affect the outcome. Going into the meeting with an attitude or outrightly blaming your co-worker will put him on the defense. Keep a smile on your face, speak calmly, avoid defensive body language (crossing arms, finger pointing, eye rolling) and avoid judgmental statements.
- 5). Agree to a solution. Lack of respect, laziness and gossiping are some issues that play a role in workplace conflict. Get to the root of the problem when talking with your co-workers, and then strategize a way to reduce tension in the workplace.
- 6). Ignore and move on. Some co-workers are unwilling to resolve conflict in the workplace. While you can't fix the problem, you can avoid future problems with limited contact. Make contact when necessary for the completion of a task, and then keep your distance to maintain a calm, professional atmosphere.
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