Ploymint

Conflicts at work are inevitable. Different work styles, personalities, and approaches to work can lead to strife. Though you may not be able to avoid disputes at work, there are ways to manage them and reach a satisfying conclusion for all involved.

1. Maintain professionalism

Whether the conflict is related to a specific project or is something more personal between you and a colleague, you should keep the tone respectful and professional. Your argument will have more legitimacy and you’ll be taken more seriously. Also, when it all blows over, you’ll still have maintained mutual respect between you and your co-worker.

2. Try to defuse the tension

Disagreements can escalate pretty quickly. If you sense things are starting to get heated, try to bring the argument back down to an appropriate level. Suggest having the discussion somewhere away from other colleagues, like a conference room. Mention certain points on which you see eye to eye, to show that you may not be far from reaching a compromise.

3. Be sure to listen

Our natural tendency in an argument is to focus on getting our point across, effectively and persuasively. While you should feel comfortable delivering your side, it also can be beneficial to listen actively to the counterpoint your colleague makes. It creates an atmosphere of mutual respect and may also ensure that your point gets heard as fully. In addition, your colleague may bring up points you had not considered that may change your viewpoint.

4. Take a break from each other
   

If possible, avoid interacting with the person for a while—a few hours, a day. Giving each other space might help the other person see your side, or vice versa. Also, it can help de-escalate any tensions or bad feelings.

5. Bring in a mediator

Often, a third party can offer a fresh perspective on a disagreement. Another colleague may be able to find mutually satisfying solution for you and your co-worker or offer further rationale for a particular point of view.

Workplace disputes can be prickly to navigate. We spend most of our days around our co-workers, so any sort of tension can make office life uncomfortable for you and other colleagues. When conflicts do arise, every effort should be made to allow cooler, level heads to prevail.