Eight Ways to Calm Conflict
( More Economic Stress = More Conflict )
Have you noticed more backbiting, berating, and even out-and-out blow-ups in your workplace lately? It should be no surprise, given the economic stress many people are experiencing these days.
If the people around you also fear for their jobs or have to take on extra duties from positions that are on hold, you have the proverbial recipe for disaster.
 So what can you do?
1. Don't become the fixer for employees' or colleagues' issues, unless the problems actually come under your job responsibilities.
2. Listen and show empathy (of course!). Note: This is different from saying, "I know just how you feel." No you don't--not exactly anyway.
3. See if you can empower the person to discover his or her own solution. Do this by asking questions (for example, "What do you think your options are?").
4. If you oversee employees, build their skills for reducing and managing conflict (through workshops, webinars, articles, lunch & learns, etc.). Then watch productivity rise!
5. Don't postpone handling your own conflict with someone. Make a plan to talk in a tactful and non-accusatory way with the person to find common ground.
6. Keep your focus on solutions and future actions, not past injuries. You'll never win the argument over whose version of past history is the 'right' one.
7. Stay fair and factual. Ask for specifics, make sure everyone gets his/her say, and end with a plan for follow-up.
8. If none of these things help, call in a mediator. There are good services around, and when their work is done, most people wonder why they waited so long.
Now breathe. Enjoy the calm! |
