If you’re a manager who wants to keep your team performing at its best, then you know how important it is to manage conflict. As a conflict resolution expert, I understand the impact that unaddressed issues can have on a team, so let’s dig into why managing workplace relationships is crucial, and how you can encourage your team to speak up while also promoting discretion.
Where there are people, conflicts are bound to happen, because each person is unique, with their own values, beliefs, and perspectives. Bringing a team of diverse individuals together in a workplace can result in disagreements, but that doesn’t mean that conflicts are a negative thing. When resolved in a constructive way, they can foster growth, creativity, and collaboration.
Public Criticism Shouldn’t Happen
Encouraging your team members to speak up about their concerns and disagreements is a key component of conflict and relationship management. Creating a culture of open communication and dialogue will help you to identify and address issues before they escalate. When people feel comfortable voicing their opinions and know they will be heard, they’re more likely to bring up their concerns early on.
However, there is a need for discretion when it comes to expressing frustrations. Managers must communicate that spreading negativity or gossiping about colleagues, or the company is not acceptable. As a manager, you should provide a safe space for employees to express their grievances and offer support in finding solutions. Yet, it’s crucial to communicate the importance of keeping disagreements confidential. Employees should be guided to approach the appropriate channels to voice their concerns to prevent the spread of negativity and preserve a positive work environment.
Consider saying, “This conversation would be better in a private setting so we can resolve this issue without it negatively impacting the team.” My colleague Tammy Dunnett wrote this script into an article about managing public criticism, which helps guide an employee when making derogatory remarks.
By nipping public criticism in the bud early on, and using a private setting to have the conversation, you’ll be setting a great example of discretion as well.
Remember, your team expects you to manage conflict, so if you can’t find your way, I’m just a phone call away.
Penny
Guess what? My new book is now available for pre-order! Sandbox Strategies for the New Workplace: Conflict Resolution from the Inside Out is a playful system to help professionals embrace (and even welcome) conflict with coworkers, bosses, clients, and others. CLICK HERE to order.
