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About conflict: When employees work together, they may have conflicting goals and work styles. Because of this, conflict is a normal part of doing business. However, if you know how to handle conflict and how to interact with difficult people, you can turn this potentially destructive force into an opportunity for creativity and greater productivity.
Examples of situations that can cause conflict:
- Absenteeism
- Misunderstandings or lack of information
- Changes in the workplace
- Actions taken by a supervisor
- Evaluation of work performance
- Personal situations that affect work performance
Informal conflict management: In informal conflict management, supervisors or employees may initiate a problem-solving process aimed at settling differences fairly, at an early stage, in an open manner, without retaliation, and as close as possible to the source of conflict. Informal conflict management may include mediation as a problem-solving strategy.
Formal conflict management: When conflicts can’t be resolved through individual discussions, employees may initiate a formal conflict management process by filing a complaint or grievance. Steps in formal conflict management may include a fact-finding investigation, a hearing, or arbitration.
If you have questions: Employee Relations, (858) 534-4115, facilitates informal conflict management and assists in collaborative problem-solving.
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