Workplaces are often an unavoidable source of conflict. People may be competitive, come from widely different backgrounds and value systems, and have different methods of approaching work and workplace behavior. While conflict may be inevitable, it does not always spell disaster for the workplace. There are many types of workplace conflict resolution that can help resolve all kinds of difficulties and strengthen the working environment.
Many forms of workplace conflict resolution begin with getting the conflict down to a basic level. A manager or supervisor that is viewed as a neutral party often speaks with all principal parties in the dispute at the same meeting. Meeting with all parties at once prevents accusations of underhand dealing, backstabbing, or favoritism. Give each person equal time to state his or her issue. Then ask each participant to suggest how he or she feels the issue could be resolved.
Trying to determine who is right and wrong in a workplace dispute is often nearly impossible, and more importantly, not usually the point. The point of most types of workplace conflict resolution is to form a workable solution. Once everyone has given his or her opinion as to how the situation will be solved, it is up to the authority figure to decide how to implement the suggestions. This job is an unavoidable tightrope walk, as people who feel that their concerns or solutions are being ignored are not likely to fully accept the given solution and may continue to be a problem.
Workplace conflict resolution can quickly dip outside of business matters and into office drama and gossip. While many businesses benefit from a social atmosphere, developing drama can be distracting to the entire workforce and lead to serious or even dangerous consequences. In addition to staying neutral in the situation and trying to stamp out destructive gossip, it may be important to take time to reinforce company behavioral guidelines. Workers are adults and professionals, and should be able to separate personal problems from the workplace.
On the other hand, any evidence of harassment, abuse, or bullying needs to be taken seriously and addressed immediately. Workplace violence is a serious issue in many areas, and can result in lawsuits, disrupted working environments, and even violent or fatal confrontations. Pretending not to see problems, or hoping that they will resolve themselves, will generally only add to the issue.
Most theories of workplace conflict resolution simply depend on the ability to see workers as people, rather than simple work drones. The point of conflict resolution is to create a productive and professional environment, which generally means that all employees must feel they have an open forum for discussion and a respectful boss that takes them seriously. Remaining neutral, listening equally to all sides, and fostering an atmosphere of honesty can help nip many confrontational situations in the bud.