Conflict is a tense and often violent situation involving two or more people who disagree with each other. The situation can arise because of differences of opinion, or because of incompatible needs and desires. It can also occur as a result of social or cultural norms that are incompatible with the goals and values of the individuals involved.
When dealing with conflict, it is essential to be able to identify the different stages of the problem. This way, you can find solutions and work toward a resolution that will be beneficial for both parties.
Pre-Conflict
The build-up of a conflict can be caused by many different factors, including lack of communication or coordination, differences in interests, and a person’s inability to relate to others. There are also times when conflicts come about because of a triggering event, such as a disagreement over a workplace project or a dispute with a friend.
Triggering events are usually unexpected and cause a lot of stress, but they can also be predictable. For example, the death of a loved one or a major job change can bring up conflict.
Post-Conflict
Once a conflict has been resolved, it is important to take steps to make sure the situation does not recur. This can include checking in with the people involved to see if they are following through on the agreed upon steps to solve the issue.
If the conflict is still occurring, it may be time to consider new options. This could include changing the way you handle certain situations or adding a member to your team.
Keeping tabs on your employees is crucial for your success in any role, but it’s especially critical when you are in charge of handling a conflict. When you spot warning signs, you can quickly address them so that they don’t recur.
Ineffective communication is another common sign of a potential conflict, as is a high level of anger or impatience amongst staff members. These can be exhibited by terse emails, inappropriate language during interactions, or a lack of interest in your co-workers’ opinions and feelings.
Gossip
A common problem in any work environment is excessive gossip. If a staff member begins telling everyone about how other members of the team are treating them or what they are saying behind their backs, it is likely a sign that there is a problem and that you need to address it immediately.
Taking care of your employees and helping them resolve any conflicts they may have will ensure that they continue to work effectively with you. In addition, when a conflict is addressed properly, it can also help you get to know your team better and create stronger relationships.