Handling workplace conflict

1. Keep in mind that conflict in the workplace is normal, so expect that it will occur at some stage.
2. Be prepared to learn and gain a wider perspective.
3. State your own beliefs, attitudes and priorities on an issue.
4. Be prepared to listen to others beliefs, attitudes and priorities.
5. Give yourself and other co-workers space and time to sort through any conflict.
6. Don’t gossip or gripe about your co-workers to other staff. It not only makes you look unprofessional, but won’t make you feel better in the long run.
7. Think about why you are fighting. Is it because of personality issues, or the issue itself?
8. Decide if the issue is really worth fighting about, in comparison to your own peace of mind. That is, will it matter in 10 years time, or impact on your own personal goals?
9. Try to create a friendly workplace. The first step is to stop arguing, and start listening.
10. Think about what you could achieve at work if the energy you spent fighting was spent working together, and ask your colleagues to do the same