Even the healthiest work environments can create conflicts and are more common than we think. Labour disputes can affect the company’s dynamics, and minor disputes of the moment can ruin the proper functioning and efficiency of the workspace. Here are some tips to help you do good conflict management at work.
How to do good conflict management
There are several ways to control, minimize and prevent conflicts in a company. These methods are different depending on each sector and business model, but there are some standard guidelines for all companies, regardless of size or area of expertise.
Promote open communication
Large companies and the corporate world have long put this rule into the workplace: the open dialogue between all staff and departments.
In the world of SMEs and startups, it should be no different. Implementing an open communication policy and fostering dialogue between employees is very beneficial in conflict management. There are small discussions that can be quickly resolved with a straightforward conversation without leading to a bigger problem.
Keep all your employees informed
Conflicts often arise because not all team members have the same information about the project or work that is being developed. This leads to situations in which not everyone agrees and creates differences when it comes to seeing things.
These differences caused by a lack of information are a waste of time and hinder productivity.
Pay attention to ideas and suggestions
It is expected that in a conflict, one of the parties feels that their opinion is not being taken into account or that the company is not listening to their suggestions.
Keep in mind that all your employees are essential, as are their opinions, so listen to them and encourage them to participate with suggestions and ideas actively. If you think a picture is inappropriate for the project, you should carefully reason and explain the pros and cons and why that idea does not fit the objectives.
Create a fun workspace
A relaxed and fun work environment can be an excellent ally for conflict management.
Although your employees’ work is vitally important and requires greater responsibility, motivated and relaxed people work better than stressed and pressured people. Laughter and good humour are not a distraction but an infallible ally to relieve pressure.
Encourage cooperation and teamwork
Creating opportunities for your employees to get to know each other better is halfway done to communicate better.
Events and activities of team building are very beneficial. They help bring co-workers closer together, build relationships of mutual trust, and make the workplace a more exciting place.
Keep emotions out of the discussion
When faced with an argument, you must prevent emotions from dominating the situation. We are all human, and it can be challenging to separate the rational from the emotional in conflict.
Conflict management involves encouraging employees to be objective and not letting their emotions interfere (too much) in the conversation. If necessary, you should remove your employee from the discussion and try to calm him down before resuming the conversation.
Be organized above all
In a company where the organization does not prevail, conflicts, misunderstandings and lack of communication are often more common. If you create an organized and structured work environment, it will be easier to manage the competition and the company itself.