4 Ways to Deal with Conflict

Let’s be honest.  Conflict in the workplace and in business happens.  Sometimes, personalities clash, stress causes some to speak or act out of frustration, or opinions and feelings dominate.  When conflict happens, how we handle it can determine if bridges will be burned or if working relationships can be preserved.  Here are a few tips for handling conflict in the workplace.

1. Treat others with respect.  Always show respect to others as professionals and as human beings.  Showing respect will guide how you speak and act toward those who you experience conflict with.  It can be difficult to show respect to someone who has disrespected you, but you must be determined to be the bigger person, especially if you serve in a leadership role.
2. Guard your words.  Once something is said, it cannot be taken back.  Words that are spoken carelessly can lead to further argument, anger, and hurt.  Be careful to speak about the conflict at hand and not turn to belittling others or making personal attacks.  Also, you should avoid profanity or yelling.
3. Seek resolutions.  The goal of resolving a conflict is to mend relationships and move forward, not to “win”.  If you have this goal in mind, your speech and actions will lead to peacemaking instead of further argument. On the other hand, if your only goal is to prove that you are right, the conflict will not likely be resolved.
4. Be humble.  Apologies go a long way.  If you see that you are wrong or have made a mistake, offer a sincere apology.

When you experience conflict in the workplace, understand that everything may not be resolved and restored right away. What is important is that you do your part in resolving the conflict and handle yourself in a professional way.