There are some important steps managers can take to deal with workplace conflict resolution in Australia. Whenever a group of people are put together, there is an good chance that some degree of conflict will arise. Sometimes this is relatively easy to deal with, yet on other occasions it can get out of control very fast and create a hostile work environment for everyone.
One of the biggest mistakes bosses and managers make is to avoid dealing with the problem. They hope that the employees will take care of it themselves and simply look the other way. This is always a mistake. Occasionally the problems seem to have died down, but usually the are simmering just below the surface waiting for another opportunity to boil over.
It is vital to address any situation as soon as it becomes obvious. The first step is to meet with both parties at the same time. Many people make the mistake of meeting with the conflicting parties separately. This often generates even more animosity. By sitting down together no one feels they have been slighted or is under attack.
Giving all those involved a chance to talk about their concerns is the best way to an amicable solution. Each person should get a few minuets to summarize the situation as they perceive it. They can then offer some ideas about how best to resolve it. This gives everyone the opportunity to feel heard and offer a constructive way to get things back on track.
It is important to stress that people do not have to like each other or have the same view points. But they do have to treat each other with respect and courtesy. Personal differences of opinion cannot become hostile conflicts. By clearly explaining this everyone is clear about the expectations.
The boss or manager must not take sides. Instead they should set high expectations from all the staff. They must also make it clear that they expect the conflicts to stop and the hostile behavior to end. Only mature adult behavior will be tolerated in the work place. Letting the workers know that their disagreements cannot be expressed at work is a basic requirement.
By working through the steps it is possible to effectively manage workplace conflict resolution in Australia. A hostile environment affects all the workers. If left unchecked it will quickly begin to spread. People will take sides and the hostility will become open. Clients will also be affected and the company will loose business.