HOW TO DEAL WITH TEAM CONFLICT
Conflict is inevitable as long as there’s interaction involved, at home or at work. More often than not, conflict allows us to come up with creative solutions and ideas to overcome challenges. At the workplace, often companies will have transformation and reorganisation to promote collaboration with people of various backgrounds in order to enhance their point of view and creativity. This, however, may create friction that results in conflict with positive or negative outcomes. Here are some ways to deal with it.
1. STAY OUT OF IT
If the conflict doesn’t involve you, stay out of it! However, If you are in a management position, you would need to act as a mediator to resolve the matter.
2. IS IT WORTH IT?
You would need to assess the issue raised warrants the team’s time. Some problems are better off being let go. If it is a major issue that needs to be addressed in a team meeting, refrain from giving your personal comments, instead, help move things along.
3. OPENNESS
If you are involved, accept that the other party may be right. Ego is a major hindrance to accepting good ideas from others.
4. COMPROMISE
It takes guts to recognise and give in to a better idea although it doesn’t involve you. Even if you disagree with it, compromise if it is for the betterment of the team as well as achieving the common goals.
5. KEEP CALM
Keep your cool when dealing with conflict as it may affect your career advancement. An emotional tantrum could jeopardise your credibility and reputation. There’s more to gain in your career if you are able to maintain professionalism under a conflict-riddled situation.
6. WOO THEM
If you would like to contradict or defend an idea (of others or your own), be well prepared with a kick-ass presentation supported by facts to lure their buy-ins. This may reflect on the support you receive later on.