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Conflicts are a normal part of social life and often arise at work due to differing personalities and backgrounds. These differences can lead to disagreements.
While everyone wants their work to proceed smoothly, the workplace is full of potential conflict triggers. One common trigger is differing priorities when working across divisions or departments. People often strive to distinguish themselves or take a lead, which can create tension.
However, conflicts aren’t inherently bad––they can have positive outcomes. Disagreements provide opportunities for team members to learn from one another and grow.
That said, conflict is a double-edged sword: it can also strain relationships, reducing teamwork quality and productivity. The key is how you handle it. So, how can you prevent conflicts from lingering? Here are five approaches to try.
See also: Conversation No-Nos at Work
Some people prefer addressing issues indirectly, such as through emails or brief texts, to avoid direct confrontation. However, this approach can often escalate the situation.
Miscommunication is more likely, and messages may be shared with uninvolved parties, complicating the problem further.
Instead, opt for a face-to-face discussion to minimize confusion and misinterpretation.
Conflicts can stir strong emotions, which is natural. However, remaining calm is essential for resolving the issue rather than escalating it.
Staying composed demonstrates professionalism and prevents your coworkers from becoming defensive or confrontational.
See also: Tips for Giving Your Opinion in a Work Setting
This contributes to a smoother discussion and increases the likelihood of achieving the desired outcomes. If you find it hard to stay calm, write down key points beforehand to keep the conversation structured and focused.
The goal of any discussion should be to find a solution that works for everyone involved. Reaching a consensus fosters better teamwork moving forward. During the discussion, share your perspective honestly and encourage others to do the same.
Focus on identifying the root cause of the conflict and clearly articulate your ideas to ensure mutual understanding.
See also: How to Ace Your First Job Interview
The purpose of discussions is to resolve issues, not to assign blame. Be open to listening to your coworkers’ perspectives––they may bring up aspects of the problem you hadn’t considered.
Dismissing their viewpoints can lead to defensiveness and slow progress. Instead, emphasize that the goal is to resolve the disagreement constructively.
While many conflicts can be resolved directly between the parties involved, some situations may require mediation.
For instance, if a conflict arises during a team project, seek input or feedback from other team members. A neutral third party’s perspective can help clarify issues and facilitate resolution.
Those are some tips for resolving conflicts with coworkers, enabling you to address the issue privately before involving a third party.
See also: Career Openings Available at Astra Group’s SERA in November 2024
Besides learning to resolve conflicts, it’s essential to work for a company with a positive work culture and clear career prospects. Choose a company with a strong reputation and credibility in its field, like PT Serasi Autoraya or SERA.
SERA is one of Indonesia’s largest transportation and logistics companies, operating since 22 March 1990. As part of the Astra Group, it regularly recruits employees to fill various roles.
Currently, SERA continues to offer opportunities for individuals to join its businesses.
Follow SERA on Instagram @serasiautoraya and LinkedIn Serasi Autoraya for career tips and the latest job openings.