How to Resolve a Conflict at Work

 Questionnaire

Introduction

§  Mention seven different things you should do when a conflict arises at work.

 

Part I. Approaching the Conflict

1. Acknowledge the conflict.

§  What attitude should you adopt when acknowledging a conflict?

2. Focus on the problem, not the person.

§  What should you do to keep from making the conflict personal?

3. Take the initiative.

§  How could you take the initiative when a conflict arises?

§  When personal failures cause conflicts, what recommendation should you follow?

 

Part II. Talking it Over

1. Choose the right time and place to talk.

§  What recommendations should you follow when you want to talk a problem over with someone else?

2. Ask what’s not working.

§  Why is it important to ask why other people have done something that might hurt or upset you at work?

§  What recommendations should you follow when you ask about it?

3. Listen to their perspective.

§  What recommendations should you follow when you are listening to others while they are telling you about a conflict a work?

4. Find things you agree upon.

§  How can you find a ‘common ground’ with the person you could have a conflict with?

5. Apologize for any wrongdoing.

§  When you are involved in a conflict, what should you own up to?

6. Resist acting on impulse.

§  What should you do if your coworker says something offensive and why should you do it? 

7. Avoid accusations and blame.

§  What recommendations should you follow to avoid blaming others for the conflict?