14/04/2022
Managing conflict is critical. Some tips👇🏽.
Our 4c’s of conflict management
Although it’s somewhat old news in today’s fast paced world , the Chris Rock/Will Smith incident made us think about conflict in the workplace and how it can be managed.
Here are our 4c’s of conflict management:
1)Culture
The organisational culture in any workplace is so important. It’s something that’s intentional and should not be left to chance. Your culture should be underpinned by clearly articulated values. For example if respect is one of your values and is incorporated into how things are done in the organisation, then in turn conflict will be dealt with in a respectful manner that takes into account divergent views.
With a clearly defined organisational culture your recruitment process will also take into account whether a prospective employee is a culture fit. That’s important , because often what underlies conflict is conflicting values and those are often entrenched in how a person thinks and approaches his /her working environment.
2) Communication
Creating an environment that encourages communication and dialogue can go a long way in reducing conflict. This may include setting up the appropriate structures or even processes through which employees may raise dissatisfaction. Creating an environment where employees feel heard and proactively acting/addressing those grievances can go a long way in reducing conflict.
In addition, communicating the behavioural parameters within which conflict must be dealt with is important. You can do this through an internal policy that articulates those parameters clearly. It’s important for employees to understand what’s expected of them and the possible consequences if one acts in a way that ammounts to misconduct e.g . assault etc.
3) Consistency
Consistency is important in dealing with conflict. Although every situation may be different, the general principles in place should be consistently applied. Being inconsistent in how you deal with conflict will undermine your efforts and create mistrust within the organisation. Consistency is key.
4) Capacitating your team
There are few things more rewarding than empowering your team to deal effectively with conflict. This can , and should happen throughout the organisation. You can look at programmes such as conflict-resolution, personal mastery, emotional intelligence etc.in doing so. This, coupled with good communication, shared organisational values and consistency, will empower your team to deal effectively with conflict.
Conflict is a part of life and of building healthy relationships, even in the workplace. How we deal with it makes all the difference.
Let us know your thoughts.We’d love to hear from you.
Phindile Ndamase
Founder: Soteria Group
Soteria Group is a level 1 BBBEE consultancy with a focus on legal, recruitment and coaching solutions.