Conflict in the workplace is commonplace between employees. However while common the consequences can be very problematic.  This is where effective workplace conflict resolution activities should be identified and then promoted before the situation leads to low morale among employees and affects the bottom line of the organization. Workplace conflict resolution can proactively address this issue if both parties understand the implications of not addressing the situation. After all we spend the majority of our days at work and the environment shouldn’t be hostile or threatening for anyone.

Workplace Conflict Resolution Often Enhances Productivity

Before undertaking conflict resolution in the workplace, it is important to understand some basic ground rules and fundamentals of any conflict. The main culprit behind any conflict is communication, or rather a lack of it. There is no unpleasantness that arises due to what is said, but rather due to how it has been said. Rather than getting embroiled in the cycle of conflict, it is advisable to step away and focus more on personal understanding between the aggrieved parties. It needs to be clearly understood that all processes and people are on the same path towards achieving the organizations targets and goals. In order to bridge gaps between employees, real life strategies can be of a great help.

 

Create a Team Environment

 

Any kind of conflict resolution should be based on removing the group dynamics that are causing and often agitating the conflict. Rather, these are to be replaced with resolutions that tend to focus on positive issues and improve upon workplace behavior.

 

One of the most effective conflict resolution activities, especially in the workplace remains the art of active listening. In this, the participants are able to realize the difference between not listening at all and listening actively. This also tests the effectiveness of the other partner in being able to communicate effectively.

 

Advocacy is another conflict resolution activity for the workplace. In this case, a conflict situation is created. The participants are asked to react as they normally would. Then the participants are asked to resolve the conflict as they normally would see fit. Many other probable conflict resolution options are discussed and debated. This is one of the most popular conflict resolution activities as no rapport is lost. Rather, many tensions as well as conflicts tend to get resolved this way in an amicable atmosphere. In fact, this activity goes a long way in reinforcing positive workplace behavior among employees.

 

Other workplace conflict resolution strategies include employees putting their unresolved conflict situations on a piece of paper and then putting this paper in a box. Now, randomly a paper is taken out and all participants try to resolve the issue. Various out of the box suggestions pour in. This is a highly effective way to resolve conflict and the act of de-personalizing the issue at hand frees up those participating to make useful contributions without fear of retribution. There will be no bad blood and the conflict gets resolved through new and unique ways.

 

Workplace conflict resolution activities are meant to skill employees to handle conflict situations in real life.