Conflict is an inevitable part of any workplace. How we manage and resolve it can significantly impact the atmosphere and productivity of any workplace. Here’s a 7 day challenge to improve conflict resolution at work from Ouch Learning and Development’s very own conflict resolution course. To help you and your team improve communication, build stronger relationships and reduce stress on your workplace.
Monday: positive communication
Start the week by focusing on positive communication. Encourage team members to express their thoughts and feelings constructively. Using “I” statements instead of “You” statements avoids sounding accusatory. Practice active listening by paying close attention to what someone is saying. Then repeat back what you’ve heard to ensure understanding.
Tuesday: confronting unacceptable behaviour
Emphasise the importance of confronting unacceptable behaviour immediately and respectfully. Addressing unacceptable behaviour promptly can prevent it from escalating. Review the steps for resolving conflicts and maintaining a positive work environment post-conflict.
Wednesday: assertiveness vs. aggression
Teach your team the difference between assertiveness and aggression. Assertiveness involves expressing your needs and opinions confidently and respectfully, while aggression involves forcefully imposing your will on others. Role-play different scenarios to practice assertive communication.
Thursday: human responses in conflict
Educate your team about human responses in conflict situations, such as the effects of fear and the “fight” reaction. Understanding these responses can help in managing and de-escalating conflict. Discuss how triggering an angry response in others can escalate the situation and ways to avoid it.
Friday: assessing and reducing risks
Conflict can pose various risks, from emotional strain to physical threats. Teach your team to assess and reduce these risks. Discuss potential triggers and how to mitigate them. Create a safe environment where everyone feels comfortable addressing conflicts without fear of repercussions.
Saturday: de-escalating emotive situations
Even on the weekend, conflicts can arise. Equip your team with de-escalation techniques for emotive situations. Focus on non-verbal communication, such as maintaining a calm demeanour, avoiding threatening body language, and using a soothing tone of voice. Practice these techniques at home.
Sunday: managing expectations for the coming week
Unmet expectations often lead to conflict. Use Sunday to prepare for open discussions with your team about their roles, responsibilities, and expectations for the coming week. Clarify any ambiguities and ensure everyone is on the same page.
Conclusion
Wrapping up the 7-day challenge to improve conflict resolution at work, we can clearly see that effective communication, understanding human responses, and proactively addressing conflict can transform a workplace. By focusing on these key areas, we not only build stronger relationships but also create a safer, more harmonious, and productive work environment.
Business training at Ouch Learning and Development
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Stress Management
This Stress Management course introduces a risk-based approach to managing work-related stress, helping senior managers, HR, and health and safety professionals design and implement effective stress management programs. It covers the HSE stress management standards, physiological and psychological signs of stress, and strategies for mitigating stress in the workplace to enhance overall well-being and performance.
Conflict resolution is a commitment
By engaging in this 7-day challenge and utilising the techniques from our Conflict Resolution Course, your workplace has the potential to become calmer and more productive. Remember, the key to effective conflict resolution is continuous practice and a commitment to working better together.
Edited by Kimberly Fudge, Business Manager