The Art of Conflict Resolution - Why Don't My Staff Get Along?

It’s natural for people to have disagreements, but when conflict starts to affect your team’s productivity, it’s time to take action.

A team that doesn’t get along can be a real problem for managers, and it’s important to find ways to resolve conflicts in the workplace. In this blog post, we’ll explore the causes of conflict in the workplace, how to recognise conflict, and steps you can take to resolve it.

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Understanding workplace conflict

Common causes of conflict in the workplace

There are many reasons why conflict can arise in the workplace, including:

Differences in personality, values, and work style
Competition for resources, recognition, or promotions
Poor communication
Unclear roles and responsibilities
Misunderstandings and assumptions

Spotting the signs of employee conflict

It’s important to maintain awareness when conflict is present in the workplace. Here are some signs to look out for:

Tension or hostility between team members
Negative comments or gossip
Lack of communication or collaboration
Decreased productivity
Absenteeism or high staff turnover

Examples of conflict in the workplace

Here are a few examples of conflict in the workplace:

Two team members argue over who should take credit for a successful project.
A team member consistently misses deadlines, causing frustration and tension with the rest of the team.
A team member not pulling their weight, causing resentment among the rest of the team.

5 tips for resolving conflict in the workplace

If you notice conflict in your team, here are some steps you can take to resolve it:

1. Address the problem directly

Talk to the individuals involved in the conflict and listen to their concerns.

2. Identify the root cause

Try to understand the underlying issues causing the conflict.

3. Brainstorm solutions

Work with the individuals involved to find solutions that everyone can agree on.

4. Implement the solution

Take action and follow up with the team to ensure that the solution is working.

5. Evaluate the outcome

Check in with the team periodically to see if the solution is working and make adjustments if necessary.

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Unlock the art of conflict management

Conflict in the workplace is a common problem, but it’s important to recognise and address it early on to prevent it from escalating. By taking a proactive approach to resolving conflicts, you can create a more positive and productive work environment.

If you’re struggling to manage conflict in your team, consider seeking professional help from The Speakers’ Gym. Our change management training courses can provide you with the tools and knowledge you need to build a stronger and more harmonious team. Don’t let conflict hold your team back – take action today.