How to Avoid Conflict in the Workplace
Workplace conflict can cause unnecessary stress and tension in your life. It can be distracting and adversely affect your ability to do your job. Fortunately, there are many ways to handle, manage and minimize workplace conflict. Once you have made a decision to confront the conflict, moving forward is easy. The key is staying calm and open-minded.
Step 1
Gossip only about harmless subjects. This might include what was on television last night, the cute new employee at the local coffee shop and nonpolitical and noncontroversial current events in your city. Avoid talking about the physical appearance and mannerisms of your colleagues and superiors and current events in your company. Harmless chitchat by the water cooler helps workplace relations; indulging in vicious rumors does not.
Step 2
Use positive language when discussing the company or co-workers' personal lives. Some things are better left unsaid, especially negative comments. If you think the company roller skating Christmas party would have been more appropriate for your 6-year-old daughter, say, "I feel like it really brought out the kid in all of us." Keep off-putting comments to yourself. It's better to be a Perky Polly than a Negative (soon-to-be unemployed) Nancy. Remember, a positive attitude can be contagious.
Step 3
Seek help and clarification about work matters from your co-workers and superiors. It will save you time, ensure good performance and help you avoid conflict. If you're confused about a project layout, request feedback from the work committee and your boss about what the outcome should look like. Use a bit of flattery, too, when addressing a colleague, and tell him you are seeking out his opinion because of the great work he does.
Step 4
Think and listen before you speak. Manhattan-based psychotherapist and author Mark Sichel offers the following tips: Confront the situation head-on; stay calm and let your co-worker speak her mind; take five minutes to collect your thoughts; and then respond to her worries, accusations or complaints.
Step 5
Keep an open mind when dealing with conflict. Corporate effectiveness consultant Mim Abbey reminds office-goers to think of a conflict as a situation where more information is needed and something can be learned. You may think you have the perfect solution to a workplace problem, but remember: Your solution may only work for you. Work together to find a solution that works for everyone.
References
https://www.businessknowhow.com/manage/resolve.htm
http://www.indianmba.com/Occasional_Papers/OP251/op251.html