It is inevitable in any business that there will be conflict in the workplace from time to time. Whether it’s’ dealing with the office gossip or diffusing the tension between two highly competitive performers, conflict resolution is necessary in order to foster a healthy work culture for everyone. Unresolved conflict can lead to stress for employees, lower productivity, and higher turnover. That’s why effectively handling workplace issues is critical for the success of today’s business. Here are a few ways in which conflict resolution can foster a healthy and productive organization.
It Boosts Workplace Morale
Few people want to work in a place where they feel bullied, misunderstood, and not supported by their leader. Employees who struggle to create positive relationships with colleagues and clients can be a liability. Likewise, employees who don’t pull their own weight can end up bringing the whole team down. These types of issues can lead to disengagement and cause good employees to walk out the door. That’s why it’s important for managers to handle these types of issues immediately when they arise. Employees should feel happy and safe when they come to work and they should feel like they are part of a cohesive team. When managers encourage positivity in the workplace, it boosts morale and makes for more engaged employees.
It Improves Productivity
A lack of communication among employees and their manager can severely hamper productivity. For example, if a client is angrily pushing for a sooner deadline and the employer fails to communicate that to their team, it could negatively impact the team by causing them to miss this new deadline. Likewise, if one employee is refusing to collaborate with fellow colleagues on a project, it could cause delays for the entire team. These types of issues need to be addressed and dealt with in order to keep things running smoothly.
It Increases Retention
No manager wants to lose their best performers, but that is exactly what will happen if workplace issues aren’t handled properly. The way a manager deals with conflict can play a key role in determining how employees feel about their jobs and can result in the turnover of valued employees. Managers who deal with these issues directly will create a more positive workplace climate and increase employee retention.
It Builds Trust Within the Organization
When managers fail to confront problems, it erodes trust within the business. Employees want to know their manager has their best interest at heart and is willing to do what is best for the sake of their employees. You can increase your credibility as a leader by making sure all employees are working to meet the expectations of the organization.
There are many things that can be done to improve the workplace environment but one of the most important changes managers can make to foster a healthier business is by confronting conflict and workplace issues head on. This action can single handedly help employees to feel happier, more motivated, and more engaged in the workplace.