Conflict is never easy but employees who embrace it are more successful in the workplace. Need proof? Try this little test.The next time a co-worker gets mad at you ignore them.
See how it affects your relationship. Then in a similar situation with a different person, try the opposite approach. Talk with your colleague about your differences and how they responded to you. Chances are you'll have a much better relationship with the second person because you talked things out.
Difficult Situations
Common conflicts in the workplace usually involve differences in personality, differences in perspective and differences in problem solving. Personality differences are natural because people are unique. You wouldn't expect anyone to see the world the same way you do, would you? But that is exactly what we do without thinking about it. We force our understanding of life, our experiences and our preferences on other people and it doesn't work.
Differences in perspective are natural because of our unique backgrounds. We tend to expect our colleagues to come around to our opinions. But why? Are our opinions and perspectives better than others? Really? Sure if you have expertise or experience that others don't, then you bring a unique perspective. The trick is presenting your case, without attitude, in a relevant way, understandable and meaningful to others.
Differences in problem solving exacerbate already difficult situations. If your fix is different than the neighboring cube, expect friction, especially in crisis situations.
Impact on Productivity
Certainly conflict brings productivity to a screeching halt. Hurt feelings and negative thoughts replace project deadlines and cooperation. Real solutions are needed to overcome the devastation of conflict.
Solutions and Results
Consider three key solutions to embracing conflict. First, talk openly about the issue. Let the other person go first and be a good listener. Then ask time to offer your perspective.
Second, be willing to compromise for the greater good. The project is not about you. The workplace is not your domain. Keep the bigger goals of the company in mind.
Third, seek assistance from other co-workers when necessary. Pull in your supervisor to mediate. Be a team player who is willing to change and grow both for your own career and for the benefit of the company.
In the end, you'll see that you are happier and healthier in your job. You'll have better relationships and your company will be more productive.
See how it affects your relationship. Then in a similar situation with a different person, try the opposite approach. Talk with your colleague about your differences and how they responded to you. Chances are you'll have a much better relationship with the second person because you talked things out.
Difficult Situations
Common conflicts in the workplace usually involve differences in personality, differences in perspective and differences in problem solving. Personality differences are natural because people are unique. You wouldn't expect anyone to see the world the same way you do, would you? But that is exactly what we do without thinking about it. We force our understanding of life, our experiences and our preferences on other people and it doesn't work.
Differences in perspective are natural because of our unique backgrounds. We tend to expect our colleagues to come around to our opinions. But why? Are our opinions and perspectives better than others? Really? Sure if you have expertise or experience that others don't, then you bring a unique perspective. The trick is presenting your case, without attitude, in a relevant way, understandable and meaningful to others.
Differences in problem solving exacerbate already difficult situations. If your fix is different than the neighboring cube, expect friction, especially in crisis situations.
Impact on Productivity
Certainly conflict brings productivity to a screeching halt. Hurt feelings and negative thoughts replace project deadlines and cooperation. Real solutions are needed to overcome the devastation of conflict.
Solutions and Results
Consider three key solutions to embracing conflict. First, talk openly about the issue. Let the other person go first and be a good listener. Then ask time to offer your perspective.
Second, be willing to compromise for the greater good. The project is not about you. The workplace is not your domain. Keep the bigger goals of the company in mind.
Third, seek assistance from other co-workers when necessary. Pull in your supervisor to mediate. Be a team player who is willing to change and grow both for your own career and for the benefit of the company.
In the end, you'll see that you are happier and healthier in your job. You'll have better relationships and your company will be more productive.
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