Clashing with coworkers? Try these 6 ways to effectively navigate conflicts at the workplace

When you work in an office environment and deal with people of different positions and personalities, some conflict is inevitable. But it's crucial to remember not to get disheartened because workplace conflict isn't necessarily a bad thing. If you know how to navigate conflicts arising in the office, it will greatly increase your productivity as well as establish you as a key asset at your firm because of you being a team player. Here are six strategies to help you effectively handle workplace conflicts and drive your career forward.

Also Read: Workplace Tips: Here's How You Can Negotiate Salary After Landing A Job Offer

6 Ways To Effectively Navigate Workplace Conflicts

1) Raise the issue ASAP

Pexels

Do not keep waiting for the right moment. It is better to be proactive to resolve conflicts sooner rather than later otherwise resentment starts to build. Initiate a conversation and set up a meeting to deal with the issue. Keep in mind to involve your supervisor or HR if you feel the need to.

2) Communication is key

It is often that many times there is no great reason for a conflict other than just a lack of understanding and communication. It is the root cause of many such confrontations that are otherwise completely avoidable, so to nip these conflicts in the bud, voice out your difference of opinion by strategically demanding an audience.

Also Read: Work-Life Balance: 7 Habits To Follow After Office Hours That'll Change Your Life

3) Manage your emotions

Do not let your emotions get the best of you. You need to raise the issue and explain your perspective in a non-confrontational and respectful manner. Crying to gain sympathy or shouting to establish your dominance over your coworker will likely worsen the situation. While you should always put forward your point, it is equally important to actually listen and try to understand other's views on the subject.

4) Focus on the problem, not the person

Pexels

Whenever any conflict arises at work, it is necessary for you to not let your personal views regarding a particular person get in the way of the actual issue. So to resolve any conflict or disagreement, first ask yourself if are you looking at a problem objectively, and if you are, only then raise the issue and deal with the problem without letting how you feel someone affecting the process.

5) Learn to take criticism

While it is understandable how a disagreement or conflict with a colleague may feel like a personal attack, it is not always the case! Whenever you are in the middle of conflict, take a pause and actually evaluate what the other person is trying to convey rather than constantly defending yourself. It may be the case that you are in the wrong, and if that's true, acknowledge your mistake or shortcoming and move forward.

Also Read: Mastering Confidence: 6 Tips To Interact With Your Boss, Colleagues & New Faces

6) Attempt to find a common ground

Pexels

When dealing with a workplace conflict, try to keep your end goal in mind. Rather than treating your colleague like an opponent understand that both of you are in the same team. Make a list if you have to, but take note of what all you agree on and how you can come to a solution that both of agree with on the things you don't. It is important for you to not be rigid and try to work things around in an efficient manner so that both of you can work together productively.

Conflict can happen in any setting, irrespective of whether you actually go to the office or work remotely. As we all are unique in our own ways, we have different working styles, opinions and ways of looking at things it is natural for conflicts and disagreements to arise. So, the next time you have such a situation on your hands, use these strategies to navigate that conflict like a pro!

Also Read: Never do these 7 things at work to always stay out of trouble

For more on fashion, relationships and health from around the world please visit Indiatimes Lifestyle.