Dealing with Conflict at Work

No matter where you work, conflicts come up. Conflicts may be the result of different work styles, personalities, or opinions. No matter what the cause, it's important to learn how to handle work conflicts in ways that boost teamwork and enthusiasm and make people feel that their ideas and opinions are heard.

Here are some things to keep in mind about conflicts at work:

• It's not OK to lose your temper with co-workers. If you feel angry or upset, try to count to 10 or leave the situation until you feel calm. If you do get angry, be sure to apologize to the other person.

• Try to understand the cause of the conflict. What's the problem really about? Are you or the other person having an emotional response to the situation? Or is there a personal conflict that has spilled over into the workplace?

• Take the time to come up with potential solutions before you talk to the other person. Don't rush into a conversation about conflict. Be prepared with some solutions before you even approach the other person.

• Try to think about the issue from the other person's point of view. Could the way you are behaving be making the other person react in a certain way? Is there a way to reach a compromise that will make everyone happy?

• Get help from a manager or human resources representative if you need it. If you don't feel that you can handle the conflict on your own, talk to your manager or someone from human resources for support.

• When you talk to another person about a conflict, stay calm and stick to the subject. Avoid saying things like, "You're always..." or "You never..." Stick to specific examples about how the person's behavior has made you feel or affected your work.

• Listen to the other person. Give the other person a chance to tell his or her side of the story without interrupting. Most people won't be willing to change or see your side of the story until they feel that you've taken the time to hear and understand what they have to say.

• Be prepared to compromise. Resolving conflicts fairly almost always involves give and take on both sides. Remember that your ultimate goal is not to become best friends -- you need to find a way to work together.

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