Tools for handling workplace conflict

Conflicts with your coworkers can make your workday unpleasant. Workplace conflicts can arise from anything, whether it’s a disagreement over business strategy or an issue with someone stealing your lunch from the fridge. If you’re experiencing tension in the workplace, you’re not alone: learn how to handle and resolve workplace conflict, so you can eliminate additional stress and focus on what’s important.

What is a conflict?

Understanding what counts as a conflict can help you identify it in the workplace when it arises. A conflict is a struggle between two or more people where their opinions or principles clash with each other. Too many conflicts can affect the productivity of your organization. Workplace conflicts can also cause high turnover, decreased work quality, and ineffective meetings. It’s wise to resolve conflicts in the workplace before they get out of hand and damage your company or team.

How to handle conflict at work

Follow these tips to help you deal with conflicts at work:

1. Analyze the situation

Before you bring a workplace conflict to your coworker’s attention, it’s important to take a step back and examine the situation. Was there anything that you did to contribute to the conflict? What happened in particular that rubbed you the wrong way? Is your conflict worth bringing up with your colleague?

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2. Choose the right time to address the conflict

If you’re hoping to resolve a workplace conflict, it’s best to address it with the person one-on-one or with a manager who can mediate. Raising the conflict during a team meeting is unprofessional—you don’t want to embarrass anyone on your team. If possible, address the workplace conflict in person. If you can’t meet with the person, try having a conversation with them via video call. Emails and messages can easily be misinterpreted. With conflict resolution, you want to communicate as clearly as possible.

3. Use the right tone and body language

A hostile tone has no place in the workplace. If you’re feeling heated about a workplace conflict, take some time to calm down before you address the issue with your colleague. It’s also important to maintain neutral body language. Aggressive body language can escalate a workplace conflict. Avoid crossing your arms or putting your hands on your hips. Keep a relaxed facial expression and maintain eye contact with your coworker.

4. Consider your word choice

When dealing with a conflict at work, it’s best to use language like “I feel…” instead of “you” language. For example, “You always ignore my ideas!” sounds much more accusatory and critical than, “I feel like my ideas aren’t acknowledged.” You don’t want your coworker to feel like they’re being attacked.

5. Listen to your coworker

You’ve aired your thoughts and feelings; now it’s time for you to listen to your coworker. Hear their side of the story and don’t interrupt them while they’re speaking. Being an active listener can help you both resolve the conflict.

6. Find a solution

Once everything is out on the table, work toward a solution so that the conflict doesn’t linger or get worse. Devise an action plan that outlines the steps of how you and your team would like to proceed in the future to prevent the conflict from arising again.

Workplace conflicts can be difficult to resolve, but with the right preparation, mending them will be easier. Learn more tips about how to maintain a smooth-running workplace, from email etiquette tips to recognizing micromanagement.