Momentum - Business to Business Online Magazine MOMENTUM February 2020 | Page 30

HR CORNER NICOLE BELLOW, DBA, MBA, SPHR, SHRM-SCP Sr. Human Resources Consultant Smarter HR Solutions, LLC 713-999-1205 | [email protected] www.smarterhrsolutions.com SIX TIPS for Ending Interpersonal Conflicts in the Workplace W ith the beginning of a new year, we want to start it off on the right foot. With staff joining or leaving, increased workload, and changes to employment laws, there are sure to be some conflicts in the workplace. Sometimes conflict can arise in the workplace due to company changes, employees displaying negative attitudes with others or simply just personal issues that have spilled into an employee’s work life. Hopefully, with these six tips we can help your company have a great 2020! 1. Focus on what you want to happen, but not based on your feelings. An emotional response will be your first instinct, but it’s best to not act on it immediately. Try to keep your focus on what’s necessary to do the job and not people’s emotions. 2. Be assertive. You can’t expect someone to know what’s going on with you. It’s best to be upfront and let your coworker or manager know that you’re having a bad day or that something is bothering you. Try not to project your negativity on other people. 3. Give and request feedback. When it comes to giving and receiving feedback you must be open. If you ask an employee or coworker how you’re doing be open to hearing the truth. If you don’t want to know the truth, it’s best to not ask at all. However, knowing the truth helps us to develop and improve ourselves. Remember, when giving constructive criticism be mindful of telling 28 MOMENTUM someone the truth without being harsh. 4. Model the type of behavior you want. Behavior is something that is often imitated, so when it comes to it, it’s best to model the behavior you want to see from your employees. Don’t model the opposite of what you want to see and expect great results from your employees. 5. Deal directly and discreetly. If you’re ever in a situation where someone angers you in a public setting, try your best not to respond in that same manner. In this situation, it is best to approach them privately and explain how that made you feel and hopefully there can be some form of understanding or resolution. 6. Always document. Anytime there is any form of conflict, no matter how small the issue is, always document what is going on. Also, if you’re an employee that is responsible for others, make sure to always document those conversations. This can come in handy and serve well as an opportunity for personal growth as well as in creating an action plan for disciplinary reasons. Please remember when dealing with conflict to be gracious. Sometimes people can be rude but try to maintain your graciousness. Two people screaming at each other is usually a recipe for disaster. Like they say, “you catch more bees with honey.” Also, you never know what someone is going through or their mental state so remain calm, be kind and not give them what they give you.