5 Steps To Strategically Resolve Conflict at Work

Knowing how to manage and resolve conflicts effectively can enhance understanding among team members and improve working relationships. In team-based environments, fostering positive relationships with coworkers is crucial. Treating everyone involved in a conflict with respect should become a best practice.

When it comes to solving conflict, use the Interest-Based Relational Approach. There are five steps you need to follow:

1. Keep people and the problems separate. For example, brushing off someone's points can be tempting because you think they're just being difficult, especially if your relationship with them isn't great. But they're speaking up for a reason. So focus on the issue, not the person. And, make sure you listen first and talk second.

2. Set the scene. Make sure everyone involved understands that it may be a mutual problem best resolved through discussion and negotiation, rather than through conflict.

3. Gather information. It's essential to ask for each person's viewpoint and reaffirm that you respect their opinion. Clarify feelings and practice empathy listening.

4. Agree on the problem. Everybody must understand what needs to be resolved. After all parties have agreed on the problem, its time for everyone to brainstorm solutions, try to make this as fair so everyone can feel they've been involved in the discussion.

5. Negotiate a solution At this stage, the conflict might already be resolved if both sides understand everyone's position. If everyone hasn't reached a solution, then use a technique like “win-win negotiation” to find one that hopefully works for everybody involved.

Conflict in the workplace can be damaging and stressful if it's not handled correctly. But learning how to manage different opinions and positions successfully can help everybody grow.