How to De-escalate Conflicts at the Workplace

Being able to de-escalate conflicts can come in handy, especially if you are at the workplace. Disputes are natural and may sometimes even resolve issues and bring positive consequences. Thus, it is important to keep them within professional boundaries and use productive communication skills. Here’s how you can do so.

Stay Calm

Getting defensive and lashing out will only escalate the situation. Instead, take a step back and try to think from the other person’s perspective. Don’t overgeneralize, listen to what others have to say first, and make sure they feel heard and understood. Active listening is the key to good communication, and it can help avoid potential misunderstandings. Moreover, if you get too defensive, your co-worker may feel like you are not willing to work together to sort things out. If you feel too emotional, try to get some distance first and talk with others only when you can think more rationally. You should also never attack someone’s character since character attack is one of the quickest ways to destroy a relationship.

Reflect on Your Communication Style

The way you communicate can either intensity or alleviate a situation. If you are an “avoider,” make a plan beforehand. Review all the points that you want to discuss, so you don’t panic. Challenge yourself to speak up and try not to view conflicts as “fights.” Instead, think of them as stepping stones to team-building and an improved workplace. On the other hand, if you are a “seeker” who tends to be very honest, remind yourself that not everyone is as comfortable as you are when it comes to confrontations. Try to be patient, always be willing to listen, and make sure you are not coming off as intimidating.

Think about the Future

Whenever you are quarreling with someone, think about the future. Remember, you will probably have to work with that co-worker for many more years, so it is always best to make sure no one’s feelings get hurt. Try to discuss the matter in private and find the root cause together instead of placing blames. You can also create a plan to help resolve the issue and prevent similar mistakes from happening in the future. Follow through with the plan and regularly check up on each other.

Sweet Tips from Ally:

Conflicts can help make your team and company stronger if they are dealt with in the right way. Here are key tips you should keep in mind whenever a problem arises at your workplace:

1. The first step is to always listen.
2. Treat others how you want to be treated!
3. Validate feelings and be careful of your tone, body language, etc.