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Jul 1, 2020 · There may even be someone you can’t stand to be in the same room with. How do you deal with them? There are several reasons that we should be able to work with other people, even if they fall...
- Overview
- Why is it important to deal with employees not getting along?
- How to deal with employees not getting along
- Tips for reducing employee conflict
- Encourage effective communication
When people work together for long periods of time, they might develop interpersonal conflict and tensions. While differences of opinion are a natural part of any human interaction, conflict can affect employees’ ability to collaborate and meet their shared goals. If you’re a management professional, learning what to do when employees don’t get alo...
Preventing an uncomfortable work environment
When employees aren't getting along, it can affect the entire workplace and create an uncomfortable working environment. For example, if two members of the team refuse to collaborate, it can make more work for other employees. Tension can also lead to stress. Effectively dealing with situations in which employees aren't getting along can ensure a peaceful and comfortable work environment for all.Related: How To Foster a Healthy Working Environment in 9 Steps
Maintaining productivity
In many companies, employees are required to collaborate on projects and other tasks. The personal dynamics of a team can affect their ability to meet their goals, so resolving conflicts quickly can increase the team’s productivity.For example, if two coders on a software development team don’t get along, the team might not produce its best work until the manager resolves the conflict between the two. Treating and preventing workplace tension allows employees to focus on doing their best work.Related: How To Improve Employee Productivity
Preventing unnecessary turnover
If a situation in which employees cannot get along for an extended period of time, one or more of the employees involved may choose to resign from their position. This can cause unnecessary turnover and the loss of a valuable, highly skilled employee.Actively dealing with combativeness between employees can increase employee tenure, which can save the company money on hiring and training. Related: FAQ: Conflict Resolution in the Workplace
1. Learn about the conflict
As a manager, it's important to understand a conflict between employees from an objective point of view. Try your best to avoid making assumptions based on rumors you may have heard around the workplace so that you can approach the situation with as little bias as possible.You might approach conflicting members of your team separately and ask them if they want to talk to you about anything. Sometimes, employee conflict is caused by stress in one or both employees’ personal lives. For example, two employees going through personal issues might be less patient with each other, causing conflict.
2. Identify any potential HR issues
Some types of employee conflict are best handled by the company’s HR team. For example, if one employee is bullying another, it might be an HR issue.If you’re not sure whether to turn the conflict over to HR, ask yourself whether the issue falls under the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), which governs employer responses to issues like discrimination, harassment or threatening behaviors.Before asking employees to meet with you for mediation, talk to them individually and try to determine whether there’s an EEOC-covered issue at play. You might ask your HR team for their guidance.Related: Best Practices for Resolving Conflict in the Workplace
3. Encourage employees to find their own solution first
Consider encouraging your employees to come to a mutual understanding on their own terms without your direct intervention. You might set aside time during the workday for your employees to sit down and talk through the issue or reserve a conference room where they can speak alone.Allowing your employees to come to an understanding on their own can foster mutual respect between them. It can also help them develop valuable conflict resolution skills for their future career.Related: Dealing With Interpersonal Conflict at Work
By taking steps to create a more positive work environment, you can reduce the instances of employees not getting along. Here are some strategies you can use to encourage positive relationships on your team:
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If there is an excessive amount of discord between your employees, consider ways to encourage effective communication between them. Try getting back to basics and offering lessons on basic communication and problem-solving techniques. Successful communication is a powerful tool toward harmony and resolution.You might use a communication assessment ...
Jun 9, 2014 · Managing people is never easy, but when the animosity between two of your direct reports escalates to the level of hatred, how do you minimize the drama and keep your team on track? Before you ...
Jun 19, 2020 · 1. Change the Topic. You could decide to completely stop talking to Jane and Paul other than when you’re in meetings together or emailing about work. It might feel awkward, but it’s a fairly effective, low-confrontation way to stay free of the drama. But what if you like Jane and Paul? What if you want to remain friendly with them?
- Abby Wolfe
Mar 30, 2015 · When people won’t work together, they’re often insecure and worried about their own safety. It’s natural that people start to “look out for #1”. Frequently, fear-based and reactive leaders have a...
Here are some tips to help you tactfully resolve conflict between two employees at work. Step 1. Understand the nature of the conflict. It’s often tempting to make assumptions about conflict, especially if rumors are circulating. But don’t assume anything. Instead, figure out what’s fueling the disagreement between your employees.
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Feb 9, 2023 · In order to work well with others, you not only need to understand the communication styles at play, but you also need to be equipped with the skills and tools needed to effectively adapt your own style on the fly.
