Conflict is inevitable in any relationship, and the workplace is no exception. Whether minor or major, unresolved conflicts can damage work efficiency, team morale, and relationships between colleagues. So, how can you skillfully and effectively "untangle" these disagreements? Here are some essential tips:
1. Understand the Root Cause
The first step in resolving any conflict is to clearly understand what caused it. Try to put yourself in your colleague's shoes, considering the entire situation and events to gain an objective perspective.
According to Barbara Reinhold, a conflict management expert and co-author of "Putting an End to Conflict in the Workplace," there are three main causes of conflict: differing viewpoints, work styles, and disadvantages caused by others' actions. Identifying the right cause will help you develop a more suitable solution.
2. Communicate Directly but Not Confrontationally
Open and honest communication between the involved parties is key to resolving conflict effectively. However, this doesn't mean being forceful, confrontational, or attacking the other person.
A study by the University of Michigan found that those who frequently face hostile or antagonistic communication are more at risk of stress, depression, and anxiety. Therefore, manage your emotions effectively and use gentle, respectful language when addressing the issue.
3. Focus on the Problem at Hand
During communication, instead of criticizing or attacking your colleague emotionally, focus on the problem you're facing and how to work together to solve it. Avoid accusatory or sarcastic language, which can further complicate and escalate the situation.
Strive to be understanding, calm, and offer constructive suggestions. You can even listen to and empathize with your colleague's perspective to develop a solution that works for both of you. This will show your goodwill and make it easier to find a solution together.
4. Find Common Ground and Seek Compromise
No one is entirely right or wrong in any conflict. Therefore, instead of rigidly holding onto your own viewpoint, try to find common ground and areas of agreement with your colleague. Build on these points to develop a solution that both of you can accept and agree to.
For example, identify shared goals or viewpoints that you can use as a foundation for compromise. If only a few points of disagreement remain, negotiate until you reach a mutually agreeable and acceptable solution.
5. Respect and Accept Differences
Your colleagues may differ from you in age, education level, personality, or viewpoints. Instead of forcing them to conform to your way of thinking, respect and accept these differences. A diversity of perspectives can help you see the issue from various angles.
According to PwC research, companies that embrace and manage diversity within their teams often experience higher productivity, revenue, and profits compared to those that don't. Sometimes, differences in style and opinion can spark creative and more effective solutions.
Therefore, don't let minor differences lead to conflict. View them as complementary aspects that enrich the team and contribute to a more comprehensive resolution.
6. Actively Listen and Manage Your Emotions
To find the best solution, not only do you need to communicate well but also actively listen and absorb information from your colleague. Don't just talk and assume you're always right. Listen to their perspective to gain a deeper understanding of their differing viewpoints.
During this process, it's crucial to stay calm and manage your emotions effectively. According to psychology research, those with better emotional regulation skills are more likely to achieve successful compromises when resolving conflicts.
Letting emotions cloud your judgment can make it difficult to control your words and actions, potentially worsening the conflict. Additionally, negative emotions can hinder your ability to analyze the situation and make sound decisions.
Therefore, strive to stay calm and manage your emotions to maintain rationality throughout the conflict resolution process. Focusing on listening and absorbing information from your colleague will help you make informed decisions.
7. Seek Help from an Objective Mediator
In some cases, conflicts may become too intense for a direct resolution through negotiation or discussion. In such situations, seeking help from a neutral third party for mediation becomes necessary.
This mediator could be a supervisor, advisor, colleague respected by both parties, or even a professional conflict resolution specialist. Their role is to act as a fair and objective facilitator, listening to both sides, analyzing the issue's aspects, and guiding both parties towards the most reasonable solution.
According to a study published in the Journal of Conflict Dispute Research, involving a third-party mediator increases the likelihood of reaching an agreement by about 60% compared to self-negotiation between the parties.
However, choosing the mediator requires careful consideration. They must be impartial, objective, and trusted by both parties. After mediation, both parties must adhere to the established principles and agreements to ensure a complete resolution of the conflict.
8. Learn from the Experience and Improve Relationships
Resolving conflict isn't just about addressing the immediate issue; it's also an opportunity for both parties to learn and improve their working relationship. Ultimately, the goal is to build a more harmonious, collaborative, and productive work environment.
After resolving a disagreement, both parties should reflect on the negotiation process. Identify what caused the conflict and how it could have been prevented in the future. Use this knowledge to avoid similar situations from arising again.
Furthermore, take concrete steps to rebuild and strengthen your relationship with your colleague. This could involve sincere apologies, expressions of gratitude, or simply dedicating more time to interact and build trust and understanding. As Kim Normandeau and Kara Henning said, "We've all been in conflict with someone, but don't let it sap your positive energy and working relationship. Turn the challenge into an opportunity to become closer and understand each other better." This is the key to maintaining a long-lasting and positive working relationship with your colleagues.
Conclusion
Conflicts with colleagues are a common and inevitable part of the modern workplace. However, with effective resolution techniques like understanding the root cause, communicating directly but not confrontationally, focusing on the problem, seeking common ground, respecting differences, managing emotions, and even seeking help from a mediator, you can completely untangle these issues. Don't be overly worried or stressed by disagreements with colleagues. View them as opportunities to understand each other better and build stronger working relationships.
Tomuz Academy
Comentarios