When you spend 40+ hours each week with the same people, things are bound to get heated. Everyone brings a different perspective to the table at your workplace, and while this is good for business, it can be bad for personal relationships. Friendships will undoubtedly form, but so will conflicts.
It’s easy to know how to handle a fight with a friend, but what does that resolution look like in the context of a professional workplace? After a disagreement or even an explosion, try these steps to resolve your conflicts with coworkers:
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Keep It to Yourself
As humans, the first instinct is to share. It’s understandable to want people to be on your side and acknowledge your feelings. Instead of running to other co-workers, take a minute to think through the disagreement and all the potential outcomes. Venting can be healthy, but offices are breeding grounds for gossip and you don’t want word getting around about what happened, especially when it’s likely to be distorted.
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Don’t Shy Away From Communication
It’s likely the last thing you want to do is have another conversation with this person, but you can’t ignore it forever. Once you’ve calmed down, maybe later in the week, reach out and request time to chat about what happened. This will avoid another potential blow up, should you jump into a conversation too quickly. Both of you can now prepare yourselves for the meeting, including any potential points you need to make.
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Actually Listen to Your Co-Worker
Most people don’t argue because they think they’re wrong, but you can’t try conflict resolution with that attitude. To be successful, you must listen to all the points your co-worker is making, without pre-formed opinions about what is actually right. Keep an open mind, and be ready to support any of your own claims. If they feel like you’re actually listening, they may be more inclined to listen to you.
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Stay Calm
High emotions are understandable, but they can’t rule the conversation. Have techniques ready to calm down if needed, and even ask to step away if you feel yourself losing control. They say “clearer heads prevail” for a reason.
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Involve Someone Else If Needed
Some conflicts persist, and one conversation isn’t enough to solve all the damage that’s been done. Having a mediator listen to both sides and try to find resolution and make a plan for how the two of you will work together can help make the process less painful.
Get Placed in One of Atlanta’s Best Companies
Occasionally, a conflict will continue and make it hard to stay at a company. If you’re looking for a new job, work with Staffing Resources. We care about our clients and leverage our relationships to make sure you find the right fit. Contact us today!