Healthy competition brings innovation and improved creativity in the workplace. But a conflict between workers brings disrespect negatively that affects everyone in the workplace. Whether the difference is because of their opinions, personalities, or other factors, there are occasions when workers do not agree with each other. And if this situation goes unaddressed, it can not only cause tension in the office but will also affect the business’s productivity.

In a workplace where a lot of ego conflicts are involved, their overall productivity is compelled to drop. Conflict resolution is not an easy task. It is a challenging job for employers to build a workplace where workers can work together in equanimity and cooperate with each other.

Here are some steps to skillfully turn conflict to resolution between disagreeing workers.

EEO Compliance

First of all, it is important to make sure that the employer not trafficking with an EEO (equal employment opportunity) problem, like workplace discrimination or harassment. Every employer needs to be familiar with the organization’s harassment prevention methods and the outlined method for filing a charge. Always remember that in the case of harassment, it is not the intention of the behavior rather how it is recognized. 

Once it is out ruled that no Equal Employment Opportunity laws are outraged, then the employer can move on to discover what other underlying situations might be producing the conflict.

Remain Unbiased and Neutral

Oftentimes during a dispute, emotions override professionalism. A person’s intervention with a neutral and unbiased stance can help the workers to move past their emotions and solve the actual issue. It is vital for the employer to set aside their own biased opinions and maintain a balanced temper. They need to listen to both the workers’ views as accurately as possible. If the workers suspect that the employer is supporting one over the other, it will hit a dead-end in the discussion or dispute.

Find Common Ground

It is the responsibility of the employer to help the workers to find common ground. As an employer, it is crucial to establish an open and safe atmosphere for the workers, while mediating an argument. Try to determine the source of the issue and ask each of the workers to offer views on how the problem could be resolved.

It is the duty of the employer to remind the workers of the difference between bad and good conflict. And their responsibility to keep the work atmosphere productive. 

Listen to Both Sides

Conflict erupts because of repressed emotions and frustrations. Giving each worker the time and space to explain their side without being hindered. This will empower the workers to release some of their frustration. But, first of all, it is crucial to determine whether it will be good to speak to the workers together or individually. While listening to the point of view of the workers, remain quiet and avoid making any gesticulations that may affirm their view. This will make the workers calmer and willing to cooperate.

Conclusion

Conflicts and disputes are common in a lot of companies. But workers can add to the success of a company if the workplace has good and happy vibes. It is the responsibility of an employer to deal with continually bickering workers and try to identify their problems. And later, follow up to resolve it. This will take the productivity and efficiency of the organization to all new heights.

Attend the Compliance Prime webinar to know about this.