Conflict in the workplace, how can you resolve it yourself?

Have things not been going well between some employees for a while? Has it now become an almost unworkable situation? Then perhaps it is a labor dispute. What exactly is this and what can you do yourself to resolve it?

When do we speak of a labor dispute?

We speak of a labor dispute when a disagreement is so great that people feel hampered by it. Sometimes it even causes absenteeism. This can happen, for example, between a supervisor and an employee or between colleagues.

How can you resolve conflict yourself?

When a labor dispute has just occurred, you can try to resolve it yourself. Here are some tips on how best to approach this:

1 - Spot a conflict early & bring the parties together When you notice certain irritations/tensions between employees make sure you bring these parties together to let them resolve it together. A conflict can only be resolved through communication.

2 - Listen to your employees It is important to make time and actively listen when an employee comes to you to discuss the labor dispute. In most cases, this already allows someone to blow off some steam.

3 - Try to come up with a solution together Discuss possible solutions with each other. Ask everyone involved to think of possible solutions and ask how they plan to put these solutions into practice.

Then engage each other in discussions to see which solution is best and most feasible. Also make arrangements to adhere to the agreed solution.

What if you can no longer resolve a conflict on your own?

If you can't work things out together, it is also always possible to hire a mediator or conflict mediator. This way you can come to a solution together with an independent person. More questions about using a mediator? Then contact us at Servicedesk@Pulsinzetbaarheid.nl or by phone at 088-031 3880.