3 ways to handle conflict in the workplace
It’s inevitable. Conflicts will inevitably arise in your organization, as such is the nature of all human interactions. As a consequence, the good atmosphere at work less serene and we are becoming less efficient and happy. Fortunately, conflict also represents an opportunity. Studies have shown that conflicts can be useful for creativity and innovation, and ultimately bring people closer together. Many of executives tends to avoid being involved in conflicts, thus jeopardizing projects and relationships. Most of the companies generally reacts to conflicts through this typical methods: Conflict management through the hierarchical channel: works in emergency situations and is very effective in the short term. On the other hand, in the long term its positive effects are less significant, because the disagreement between the two parties is not necessarily settled) Conflict management through mediation: In this method an internal or external mediator is involved. Its role is simply to guide or provoke discussion in order to help resolve the conflict. Conflict management through negotiation: Everyone will present their arguments and it will be a matter of reaching an agreement.
1. Train a non-violent communication
Even if you we use words with laudable intentions, some sentences are full of judgment, blame and reprimand. Or they simply are interpreted this way. If you want to achieve your goals and work effectively, one thing is certain: good communication at work is essential. Being aware of how you express yourself with those around you helps to improve your professional relationships and increase your chances of getting what you want. To better communicate with others, start having more empathy with yourself.
- To help people improve the quality of their relationships, Marshall Rosenberg has developed a framework based on 4 pillars:
- • Observation (rather than judgment)
- • Feelings and attitudes (rather than evaluation)
- • The expression of needs (rather than the expression of what is considered as a response to these needs)
- • Request (rather than demand)
2. Be assertive
According to Alessandra Patti, Assertiveness Coach, Self-assertiveness means honoring our wants, needs, and values and seeking appropriate forms of expressions in reality. This includes the right to ask, the right to talk about feeling and needs. So be assertive - Do not be compassionate or avoid the problem. On the other hand, avoid an aggressive tone. Listen with participation and impartiality. Make it clear that you will not take sides.
3. Plan regular meetings
Always meet the antagonists together thus to exchange and prevent conflicts. Allow everyone to summarize the situation from their point of view, without interruption. Insist that the problem can only be solved by discussion and negotiation.
