BizQuiz: Can you temper team conflict? (Answer 5c)
You’re acting more professionally when you make the first attempt to solve a conflict. So address a problem yourself when it happens. Be sure to stay calm and keep the discussion focused on the problem behavior rather than making the conversation personal. If you or your co-worker are hot under the collar, wait until later when people are calm. This also gives you time to think through what you need to say to improve the situation.
On the other hand, if you’ve tried to resolve a problem with a co-worker but haven’t had success, it might be time to speak with your manager. Explain the specific conflict, again, focusing on the behaviors and why they’re not ideal.
Need some more tips to clamp down on team conflict? See the related links below.