Workplace conflict, also known as organizational conflict, occurs when two or more coworkers disagree due to divergent interests or ideas. Actual or perceived workplace conflict can exist. Uncertain

Fremont, CA: Conflict is an unavoidable part of any workplace, even for those who work from home. In fact, according to a recent MyPerfectResume study on remote-work conflict, 80 percent of remote workers have experienced workplace conflict. Sixty-five percent of those conflicts are between coworkers, 19 percent are between an employee and their boss, and 11 percent are between an employee and an external manager.

What is workplace conflict?

Workplace conflict, also known as organizational conflict, occurs when two or more coworkers disagree due to divergent interests or ideas. Actual or perceived workplace conflict can exist. Uncertain expectations, a lack of teamwork, workplace stress or burnout, poor communication, rude behavior, bullying or harassment, a lack of transparency or honesty, poor leadership, inadequate performance, and opposing values or personality types are all common causes of workplace conflict.

How to manage conflict in the workplace:

Being Proactive

One of the most effective ways to resolve workplace conflicts is to avoid them in the first place. Attempt to identify potential areas of conflict ahead of time and intervene before any conflict arises. If a conflict does arise, being proactive will almost certainly reduce its severity and duration. You should try to understand the natural tensions in your workplace and figure out how to minimize or eliminate them.

For example, if you know that the marketing department does not get along with the accounting department, this could lead to conflict. A good leader will recognize this and take steps to improve the department's relationship. This can create a collaborative climate rather than an adversarial one. Being proactive in dealing with conflict is always a good use of time and energy.

Set Expectations for Acceptable Workplace Behavior

Don't just assume that employees will understand what is and isn't acceptable workplace behavior. This can lead to confusion and misunderstanding in the future. Instead, with all new hires, establish clear policies for what is and is not acceptable workplace behavior, and remind existing employees of the behavioral standards you expect on a regular basis.

Because many employees may work in a remote or hybrid setting rather than a traditional office, defining what constitutes a "workplace" can be difficult. Create a remote-work plan that establishes expectations for remote workplace behavior and ensures it is regularly enforced to avoid confusion. Once you have established clear workplace behavior expectations, include them in your employee handbook and go over them with your team. Each employee should sign an annual acknowledgment of acceptance and understanding.