Because of the different priorities and personalities in the workplace, there are bound to be some conflicts among staff. When this happens, it is best to address conflicts quickly and resolutely to get the focus back on the job to be done. Keys to conflict resolution are varied, depending on the situation and the people involved.
Listening
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The key to resolving conflict within an organization is the ability to listen. Each side should have the option to explain its role in the conflict and then listen to others involved. Generally, you can determine where the breakdown in communication occurred just by listening to all sides in the conflict. Determining where the breakdown occurred is the key to resolving the issue.
See AlsoThe Six Stages Of Mediation
Teamwork
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Despite conflict, always encourage your staff to pull together as a team to work it out and get back to work. Sometimes, it helps to initiate team-building activities to strengthen the team structure and help your employees realize the benefits of working in a team environment. This kind of strong teamwork concept will get your staff through even the most tough conflicts.
Self-Awareness
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Everyone -- whether right or wrong -- has a role when conflict occurs. Encourage everyone to realize their role and what they could have done differently to create a better outcome, particularly when the conflict affects the staff as a whole. This kind of self-awareness also helps each individual to do better in the future when faced with a workplace conflict.
Better Focus
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In the end, it all comes down to the focus the team has on the work at hand. As you guide your staff through conflict resolution as things come up, keep in mind that the result should be a total recommitment and refocus on the work to be done to keep the company moving forward. Explain to all involved in the conflict that they should refocus on accomplishing their key responsibilities and doing whatever it takes to work in harmony on company initiatives.
