When people work together, conflict is often unavoidable because of differences in work goals and personal styles. Promoting a positive approach to resolving problems with coworkers and managers is the key to successful relationships.

The following steps can assist you in effectively managing conflict in the workplace.

1. Prepare by defining the specific conflict and identifying desired outcomes.
2. Communicate with the other person by arranging a meeting.
3. Focus on behavior and events, not on personalities.
4. Listen carefully by avoiding interrupting the other person and asking questions to clarify your understanding.
5. Identify where you and the other person agree and disagree.
6. Set priorities on the areas of conflict that are the most important to each of you to resolve.
7. Develop a plan to work on each conflict, starting with the most important, and set up future appointments.
8. Follow up on your plan and maintain future meeting times to continue the discussions.
9. Build on your success.

Additional links on working through conflict:

• Principles of Positive Co-Worker Relationships
• Dealing with Difficult Behavior
• The Art of Communication
• Resolving Conflict at Work Procedure Workflow

Resources

• Performance Management
• Corrective Action Form