I understand if the thought of confronting a coworker causes your heart to race and your stomach to turn over. In workplace cultures where we’re encouraged to work closely together, respect each other, and even become friends, confrontation may seem like the last thing you should do. However, conflict is never fun. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that when a problem arises, people frequently prefer to blame HR and leave.
The problem with HR professionals is that, if we do our jobs well, we eventually find ourselves out of a job. We want to empower everyone at our company to be able to solve their own issues rather than having to clean up after others. Not because it requires us to do less work, but because it is frequently more efficient When you experience a problem firsthand, you have a clearer understanding of how to resolve it.
You may want to choose to pull someone aside for a quick, casual five- to 10-minute chat if you’re dealing with a minor offense involving only one person (like a condescending comment or a lie). However, talking to your boss about distributing an office memo or scheduling a team meeting may be the most appropriate if you need to address a larger group. A sit-down mediation is an excellent way to delve deeply into what’s happening and find a mutual solution for persistent, ongoing issues between two or more people.
Additionally, it is beneficial to remind yourself of why you are undertaking this. One thing I like to emphasize to people is that conflict, both inside and outside of the workplace, is unavoidable. There will be a time in your life when you can no longer avoid it, despite your temptation to back out this time. And the sooner you can develop the skills to deal with it head-on, the sooner you’ll be able to achieve your goals and meet your needs in both your personal and professional lives.
It’s also important to remember that conflict is a typical byproduct of collaboration. There will always be people in a room with you who have different opinions and ideas. Yes, it can occasionally be uncomfortable, but the alternative is to completely distance yourself from your coworkers. Is that really what you’re looking for in an experience?
Fear of upsetting or insulting the person you speak with is at the heart of a lot of conflict avoidance, but keep in mind that by not bringing up an issue that needs to be addressed, you’re denying your coworker the opportunity to advance. When you consider it that way, it is simpler to accept that conflict resolution is the best course of action for all parties.
A book on conflict resolution called Difficult Conversations: How to Discuss What Matters Most makes this a central theme. If you’re particularly conflict-averse, it’s more than worth a read. (If you don’t have time for an entire book, this article on politely confronting a coworker is a good alternative. Plus, it comes with an example conversation. ).
CONFLICT WITH COWORKERS | How to deal with conflict at work & diffuse any situation
Why is being able to handle conflict with a coworker important?
The majority of businesses and departments rely on collaboration between employees with different specialties. Interoffice relationships, however, can potentially be harmed by constant interaction and the pressure to complete high-quality work on schedule, with some employees occasionally adopting a hostile or confrontational attitude toward their coworkers. Avoiding such distractions and concentrating on your work deliverables can be achieved by handling such behavior, whether it comes from a peer or someone in a higher position.
How to handle a conflict with a coworker
Consider these steps when dealing with conflicts involving your coworkers:
1. Keep the issue to yourself
It’s best to wait to talk to coworkers about a matter that only affects you and your coworker until the two of you have Consider speaking with your manager, a friend, or a family member if you feel the need to talk about the situation with someone and want support or an objective opinion.
2. Dont postpone addressing the problem
Some workplace disputes between coworkers often begin as minor matters, but if they are not resolved right away, they may cause discomfort. Once you’ve come to the conclusion that you have a problem with a coworker, make sure to talk to them about it as soon as you can. An immediate response can result in a speedy resolution. However, it’s usually best to wait until both of you have had time to cool off and think about the situation if the conflict is sudden and unexpected.
3. Keep a positive outlook
When faced with a conflict at work, remaining upbeat can help you maintain a high level of productivity, lower your stress levels, and increase the likelihood of a quick resolution. Try to remain upbeat and put the situation in perspective even if it might potentially have an impact on you.
4. Discuss the matter in person
It’s best to speak with your coworker face-to-face once you’ve made up your mind to do so in order to communicate your feelings and clear up any confusion. Even though it may seem like a tempting alternative to a direct approach, such as sending an email outlining your point of view, it is less likely to result in a resolution.
5. Talk calmly
People often become emotional when they disagree, but you should try to remain composed when there is conflict at work. It not only keeps your reputation as a professional who can control their emotions, but it can also stop your coworker from being hostile or defensive.
You can jot down some of the key points you want to make during the meeting if you think it might be difficult for you to stay composed and on task. Additionally, you can ask a friend or relative to assist you in practicing the conversation.
6. Get right to the point
Try to be direct when addressing the issue with your coworker and explain what you think the issue is right away. You should have a clear idea of what you need to say to them to explain your point of view after analyzing the situation beforehand. Being direct may be more uncomfortable than using an indirect strategy, but it allows both of you to express your points of view honestly and increases the likelihood that the entire situation will be resolved.
7. Try to find things you agree on
Simply stating what you believe to be incorrect about your coworker’s strategy could make them defensive and decrease the likelihood of a swift resolution. Remind them that you are on the same team to prevent that. You can say that you both want the project to be successful, that you both care deeply about your company’s long-term goals, or anything else that ties your goals together, depending on your particular circumstance.
8. Listen to their point of view
It’s best to keep in mind that there might be a side to the issue that you don’t see when resolving a dispute with a coworker. Make an effort to hear what your coworker has to say about the situation and their motivations after you’ve finished your argument in order to gain understanding.
You can follow up with more inquiries after hearing their perspective to make sure you comprehend their logic. Reaching a compromise can be facilitated by carefully considering each other’s points of view.
9. Seek an amicable solution
You should try to come to an agreement that benefits both parties. Even if you decide to agree to disagree, a decision needs to be made because you are likely to continue working together. It’s crucial that you both feel like you can work together going forward after the meeting.
10. Understand when a third party needs to be involved
The majority of interoffice disputes can be settled by the two parties involved, but there are some circumstances where a third party is required. If the dispute relates to a project you’re working on with others, the other team members can probably offer suggestions to help settle the dispute. The management of the company and the human resources department will typically need to get involved if a coworker is harassing or discriminating against you in any way.
FAQ
How would you handle a conflict with a coworker interview answer?
- Keep the issue to yourself. …
- Don’t postpone addressing the problem. …
- Keep a positive outlook. …
- Discuss the matter in person. …
- Talk calmly. …
- Get right to the point. …
- Try to find things you agree on. …
- Listen to their point of view.
What are three common reasons you may have a conflict with a colleague?
- Don’t Gossip About The Conflict. …
- Address The Conflict Sooner Rather Than Later. …
- Discuss The Problem Face-To-Face. …
- Try To Find Common Ground. …
- Keep An Open Mind And Listen. …
- When It’s Your Turn To Talk, Stay Calm. …
- Know When You Need To Involve A Third Party.
What are three 3 signs of conflict between workers in a workplace?
- Show them that you maintain composure and that you make an effort to understand the viewpoint of others.
- Show them that you are level-headed, don’t take things personally, and don’t become overly emotional.
- Show them that you have the interests of the business at heart.
What is conflict with co-worker?
- poor management.
- unfair treatment.
- unclear job roles.
- inadequate training.
- poor communication.
- poor work environment.
- lack of equal opportunities.
- bullying and harassment.
