10 Ways To Effectively Handle Conflict Resolution In The Workplace

Over the past two decades, companies have made strides to create a supportive workplace for all. Despite advancements in workplace inclusivity and flexibility, 1 in 5 people say they experience some form of work toxicity. They find their jobs saturated with petty cliques, tough conversations and unavoidable conflict between their coworkers or management.

When people from different backgrounds come together, it is normal to have different values and expectations. Having disagreements with someone at work does not always mean you work in a toxic place. The issue lies when you cannot address workplace conflict in a healthy manner, leading to unnecessary stress and anxiety.

Effective conflict management can be learned and improved over time. For ambitious women looking to elevate in their life and career, conflict resolution will happen at some point on your journey.

Here are 10 ways you can prepare to tackle moments of difficulty in a healthy and professional manner.

There are three different ways to handle conflict: avoid, aggress, or assert. According to psychologist Jonice Webb Ph.D, your childhood plays a big part in what resolution method you decide to choose.

In her research, she emphasizes that it is important to know why you are the way you are. Taking time to look back on your childhood can help answer these questions. If you can notice unhealthy patterns you had as a child, you can make better choices as an adult.

Active listening can help you remain engaged during difficult conversations and protect your relationships at work.

Utilizing this tool of communication can help you gain more clarity on the needs of your counterparts. Understanding how the situation is affecting you and your coworkers can be the key to resolving the situation at hand.

The truth is, sometimes we are wrong and that is ok. Genuine apologies to the ones your actions affected can help sustain or restore relationships.

Apologizing is not always the easiest thing to do, but can help to create a space where people admit their mistakes and workplace accountability becomes a possibility.

If you notice issues at work, try to address it as soon as possible. When we ignore certain issues, it can lead to bottling up negative emotions regarding the situation. This can have long term effects on our mental health and put a strain our work relationships.

Working together is a great way to tackle different forms of conflict and build more respect for each other.

When considering teamwork and collaboration, one must also consider inclusivity. According to the Center for Creative Leadership, when people feel included, they gain confidence to be heard. Hearing different perspectives is important for generating a solution that will serve a common goal.

Don’t be blinded by your emotions or so loyal to certain coworkers that you ignore the facts. Instead, look at all the details and filter out the information you receive.

Leaning on the truth, not what you think, helps you deal with disputes in a less emotional way.

Sometimes the best way to resolve conflict is to agree to disagree in a respectful manner. According to the Harvard Business Review, disagreeing with someone can be used as an opportunity to learn and challenges you to think more critically.

Protecting work relationships are good but protecting your peace should be the priority. If you see that a situation is worsening without resolve, it may be time to step away.

Stepping away can help you clear your mind, control your emotions, and find additional support if needed.

No matter how empathetic and understanding you try to be, some situations are beyond your control and will require the help of your manager or human resources. Reaching out to someone in authority may bring an

unbiased perspective to help solve the situation.

From confronting a coworker about a rumor to speaking up at a staff meeting, conflicts at work are bound to happen. That is why practicing effective conflict resolution is important. When done right, it can create a safe environment for you and your coworkers to thrive, while working together.