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Manage conflict with these conflict resolution tips

If we avoid dealing with uncomfortable work situations, conflict resolution may prove more difficult.

Here are six conflict resolution tips to help you in resolving workplace conflict. Ideally, tackle conflict at work at an early stage to avoid it escalating.

1. Avoid Judgements

Often, when there is a conflict at work, we believe that we are right and the other person is wrong. All our energy goes into proving that point. If we can change our mindset, accept that they are entitled to their views and listen to understand, we can reach a more positive outcome.

2. Develop Empathy

Put yourself in the other person's shoes. Reflect back the content of what they are saying, and the feelings they are expressing. They will feel listened to and are more likely to respond positively.

3. Manage Emotions

Conflict management in the workplace is not helped by raised voices and insults which can do lasting damage. Allow tempers to cool before discussing the issue at stake.

4. Act Assertively

Don't confuse aggression with assertion. Assertive behaviour means expressing your needs and wants, at the same time allowing the other person to do the same.

5. Discuss Needs First, Solutions Later

Too often, we rush into solving problems. By taking the time to discuss the real needs of each party (and not just the wants) new solutions can often be found.

6. Look for Win Win

Enter any conflict with a desire for a positive outcome for both parties. If both sides feel they have gained in some way, rather than experiencing a win/lose situation, then lasting conflict resolution in the workplace is more likely to occur.

Click on Conflict Theory to read more about how conflict develops and what you can do to minimise destructive conflict.

Click on Definition of Conflict to discover how people's perception of conflict differs. It also covers role conflict and team conflict, and how best to manage it.

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