How to deal with workplace conflict

Conflict is something that most people will have to deal with at one time or another. It can come from friends, families, and people in the workplace. In the professional sphere, conflict can cause a huge amount of pain, stress, sadness, and resentment. It can make you not want to go to work, whether it is physical, verbal, or emotional abuse. Being able to recognize it and know ways to deal with it is essential. Spend time figuring out how to resolve the conflict rather than avoiding the reality of the situation. Below are some ways to deal with workplace conflict.

Speak to a lawyer

One thing that you can do before heading directly to the source of the conflict is to go to a workplace harassment lawyer’s office. This professional can give you legal advice, including whether you have a case that requires legal action or if it is something that is best handled internally.

They may also be able to give you advice on how to deal with the conflict if they have dealt with similar situations before. Often, they offer free consultations, and this meeting might be a good starting point.

Go to the source of the workplace conflict

When you have conflict in the workplace, one of the best things to do is to go straight to the source. Approaching the source of the conflict, or the person with whom you are having the difficulties, may give you a better understanding of the underlying issues and how to stop them.

It could be that you two get things out in the air to deal with the problem. The resolution might be one that both sides accept so you can move on.

But always make sure that you feel safe in the environment in which the discussion takes place. Having a third party in the room can help you feel safer and also provide a witness to the conversation details and agreed-upon solution if there is one.

Actively listen

When you are speaking to the person or people that you have a conflict with, it is essential to actively listen.  Also, give everyone their time to speak.

What this means is that you hear everything they have to say before jumping in and giving consideration to their thoughts and feelings. You can do this with the understanding that you will get your turn afterward. The approach can help you build common ground and a foundation of trust.

Set out a plan and stick with it

You and the other party need to manage any resolution that is agreed upon. That involves setting up a plan and making sure that both parties, yourself included, stick to it.

When coming up with a plan, make sure that you get everyone’s opinion on it and agree unanimously on the solution. That can make sure that everyone sticks to it and that any other conflict is quashed before it escalates into something bigger.

Concluding words on dealing with workplace conflict

Getting lots of people from different backgrounds all in one place can often lead to conflict. That is why it is so prevalent on job sites. However, this is not the time to bury your head in the sand and deal with it.

Instead, actively seek to end it calmly and peaceably. It will make going to work so much easier, safer, and better for all.