Conflict Management

Edited by Jill Wright, 01 May 2018

Conflict in the workplace is unavoidable. It happens and to some of us more often than we want! Managing conflict early is the key, before it escalates and affects the work we do. When conflict is managed we see improvements in confidence, and can reveal our strengths. When left unresolved it will result in stress and anxiety which leads to problems in communication.

Supports such as Employee Assistance Programs, Conflict Coaching and Leadership programs can assist in providing tools to manage the conflict at hand. Whether it be putting the conflict into perspective such as, is this current situation tapping into an unresolved past issue and if so how can I address the present relevant issue at hand. What to say or not say in your script. This is your director’s version of what to say in your style and how to use language to resolve rather than dissolve the relationship and how to work on addressing the obstacles along the road to recovery.

The earlier assistance is sought the better equipped the individual can be in addressing the conflict. So, the best time is now before the tension or heat in the conflict rises. In the workplace getting guidance from People and Culture can assist even whilst using your EAP service.

When you think ‘should I speak to someone about this?’ then the answer is Yes. You’ll thank yourself later knowing that you’ve acted early.

Tags

• conflict resolution
• workplace conflict