Workplace Conflict CAN end in a Win-Win Situation

Chances are, we have all been there; a workplace with some type of conflict between employees. Being able, as a manager, to settle these types of disputes is almost an art form. According to Dr. Tony Fiore, workplace conflicts "as indicated by three serious studies, shows that 23 - 60% of management time and energy is spent dealing with anger." (Fiore, 2010). Fiore also states that there is a simple four-step plan to turning workplace conflicts into a win-win situation for the employees and the employer.

Step one, evaluate communication skills. The author talks about two very important factors when trying to improve communication. First, you must look at how you communicate, and how you teach your subordinates to communicate with each other. It is very important that a manager uses "I" language instead of "you" language. Second, you must master the art of listening. Try to understand the facts surrounding the issues.

Step two, establish healthy boundaries between the tiers of the workplace. The issue that often causes problems is the crossing the line of manager to friend.

Step three, have emotional intelligence. This is best thought of as understanding how to combine both "intelligence and emotions" in your handling of others. (Fiore, 2010).

Step four, establishing behavioral consequences for the worst case scenarios. Sometimes you have an employee that just cannot work with the team you have setup. If this person cannot be changed, there must be final consequences, that everyone knows exist, that can be brought into play to end the situation.

With these four steps, a competent manager should be able to turn sticky situations into win-win situations for both the employees, the company, and management. The author closed with a story, and I would like to share that with you as well, as it demonstrates that the most important thing is how we perceive situations and our own actions.

The story of a "janitor at Carnegie Hall who had been there for 20 years. He's 45 years old. He was cleaning up the restroom, and a guy in a business suit went up to him and said, You seem to be an intelligent fellow...Why don't you do something with your life and get another job? And the janitor said, What? And leave show business?" (Fiore, 2010).


References:
Fiore, T, DR. (2010). Resolving Workplace Conflicts: 4 Ways to a Win-Win Solution.