Workplace conflict is difficult. When it becomes unbearable, the unfortunate results could be deadly. There is no need to resort to violence to deal with a hostile work environment. Rather, there are methods you can employ to resolve tension and foster a productive atmosphere at your job.
Hostile Work Environment Statistics
Dishonest coworkers, excessive workload, inadequate management, personality clashes, and stress are common reasons cited for a hostile work environment. As stress escalates, 27 percent of employees report they have witnessed a workplace conflict turn into a personal attack, and 43 percent do not feel their managers resolved the attack in the best way possible.
This is unfortunate, as it causes workers to go to extreme measures to avoid the person causing their distress. According to an international study, a whopping 67 percent of employees avoid their bullying coworkers while at the office, and another 25 percent call in sick on a frequent basis. These numbers are a tragic reflection of how workplace conflict can prevent someone, literally, from being able to do his or her job.
Don’t Stay at Home
You need not stay at home. There are methods on how to handle conflict in the workplace that will help both you and the person who is causing your tension. The first thing you should do is evaluate your situation. Is this something you can handle on your own by speaking directly with your coworker, or is it something that should be addressed by management, such as discrimination or sexual harassment.
If you desire to get your manager involved, go to him or her directly and explain why you feel there is an issue. If the conflict involves your manager, go to his or her boss. If you feel you can handle this on your own, do so, but plan out what you’re going to say and review your workplace policies to see if there is anything you can cite to back up your position. Enlist the help of HR if necessary.
Approach your coworker and request a meeting. Sometimes over a cup of coffee or lunch is more effective, as it establishes a neutral and relaxed ground. Calmly explain why this coworker makes you uncomfortable. Watch your voice and body language. Make certain you remain non-threatening. If the coworker is receptive to your discussion try to find a solution together.
Your Coworker May Have Complaints
You might discover during your meeting that your coworker is hostile toward you because of something he or she perceives you are doing to him or her. Make certain you listen to your colleague as much as you want your colleague to listen to you. Hear what is being said and set ground rules together. Be open and committed to fostering a healthier relationship between the two of you.
Finally, if resolving your conflict was rewarding, it may be time for a new career. If you think you’d like to work more in mediation and conflict resolution, earn a degree in sociology. Find out more about Case Western’s social degree to determine whether this new career choice is the right one. You can take what you learned when you resolved your workplace conflict to help others resolve theirs.
About Jammie Morey
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