Unlocking Productivity: How to Solve Work Conflicts and Get More Done

How would having an independent expert change the way you approach conflict resolution in your organisation?

Why Workplace Conflicts Often Escalate

Have you ever found yourself in a heated discussion at work over something that, in hindsight, seemed trivial? Conflicts often arise not from the issues themselves but from the beliefs and emotions we attach to them. These beliefs are sometimes built on arbitrary ideas and can even be harmful. Just like anyone else, employers might let their feelings and personal opinions overshadow logical decision-making. For instance, a teacher who subconsciously believes that students who wear glasses are smarter might give those students better grades without realising it.

The Importance of Independent Conflict Resolution

Handling workplace conflicts effectively requires more than just good intentions. Leaders often struggle with difficult conversations because they've been taught to "use their manners," sometimes praising someone for being nice even when they should stand up for themselves. This well-meaning approach can prevent real issues from being addressed. That's where having an independent expert from OES can be incredibly valuable. They bring a neutral perspective, free from the biases and personal connections that can cloud judgment.

Recognising and Challenging Norms

As business owners and leaders, it's crucial to recognise that what we consider "good" qualities might simply be what we've been taught to value, not necessarily what's truly best. Many successful entrepreneurs question established norms and values, seeking their own path to empowerment. Take, for example, the rise of YouTube channels where individuals share their unique hobbies, even if their immediate social circles aren't interested. These creators aren't afraid to challenge conventional wisdom and explore new avenues.

Conflicts at work between different people often relate over things that don’t really matter.

People’s beliefs are often built on arbitrary ideas and can sometimes be harmful.

Employers can be like everyone else—they sometimes let their feelings and personal opinions influence their ideas instead of just using pure logic. Imagine a teacher who thinks students who wear glasses are smarter. They might give those students better grades without realising it.

Having an independent expert to support with conflict can be incredibly valuable.

I see all too often leaders struggle with handling difficult conversations because they have been raised to “Use their manners”. Praising someone for being nice, even when they should stand up for themselves.

What we think of as "good" qualities might only be what you’ve been taught to value, not necessarily what is truly best.

Many business owners are true free spirits who question established norms and values, seeking their own path of empowerment. I have come to know many entrepreneurs and leaders who actively live this way. For example, many people have started their own YouTube channel to talk about their unique hobbies, even if their friends aren’t interested.

I regular use these short thought-provoking sayings when helping people manage conflict and they might make you think about life in different ways:

"You can't judge a book by its cover." – Remember that initial impressions can be misleading. Take the time to understand the underlying issues before making judgments.

"Practice makes perfect." – Conflict resolution is a skill that improves with practice. Don't shy away from difficult conversations.

"Actions speak louder than words." – Ensure that your actions align with your words. This consistency builds trust and credibility.

"No pain, no gain." – Facing conflicts head-on can be uncomfortable, but it's necessary for growth and improvement.

"The early bird catches the worm." – Address conflicts early before they escalate.

"When life gives you lemons, make lemonade." – Use conflicts as opportunities to improve processes and relationships.

When seeking a solution try not to only memorise facts, think deeply about what facts mean and enhance your understanding of the workplace.

PS. Stand up to a bully, even if it means you might get in trouble. Show courage, integrity, and generosity. You’ll thank yourself for it in the long run.

Business owners and leaders, have you encountered workplace conflicts that seemed impossible to resolve? Reach out let’s connect and see how OES can make your People Strategy Thrive - Contact Us.

Let’s exchange insights and solutions to help each other thrive.