Causes of workplace conflict

According to Webster’s dictionary, “conflict” is defined as “a sharp disagreement or opposition of interests or ideas”.  And when it comes of ideas, they can never be same of a number of people belonging to different backgrounds and cultures. A workplace is a hub of people working collectively on a particular task. Conflict is a normal and natural part of any workplace. There is a tendency for morale to be lowered, an increase in absenteeism and decreased productivity during times of conflict. In fact, a study shows that supervisors spend at least 25% of their time resolving workplace conflicts which causes lowered office performance.

• Low standards of communication: misunderstandings often are a result of incomplete knowledge either at the part of employer of employee. If looked closely, there are instances wherein the employer doesn’t completely know the process and minute detailing of the project, which when is missing, becomes a reason for scolding by your boss.  As an employee, if you can’t communicate well, you will be regarded as an incompetent person and won’t be liked by your seniors. Be clear and concise while delivering a message and adhere to your boss’ instructions properly.

• Varying styles and personality: every individual carries his/ her own individuality in terms of contemplating any particular thought or idea. Some might be very expressive and enthusiastic about the work; some might want to do it peacefully and gradually. A team has all types of people, some may be energetic, and some may be lethargic, people with optimistic as well as pessimistic thoughts. With this wide variety of qualities, conflicts are sure to exist due to differences. A particular decision may satisfy a part of the team and may be unacceptable to the other half. This diversity incorporates conflicts with itself.

• Competitive spirit: every other person in the organization wants to shine like a diamond in the eyes of boss. People are in a rush to provide the best work to the manager so as to please him/her and grab hold of a good appraisal. And if they are unable to hit the spot with the work, they sought to means like flattering the boss or manager. As an employee, your efforts to outdo your co-workers can be undermining and aggravating. So, its best to completely focus on your part and get the best out of it.

• Hypocritical workers: you must always trust the right person. Although, it is really tough to find someone who justifies being your well-wisher genuinely in this corporate hub. Every other person plays a two- faced role. They are well aware of do’s and don’ts of any particular task but would act as if they are totally unaware of what all happen in their surroundings. You would always find these people to be true backbit hers  and this indeed is a major reason of workplace conflict. As an employer, you must identify these mongrels as soon as possible and try to stay away from them.

• Poor planning strategies: once a task is assigned to your team, its your utmost priority to carry it well. And a task can achieve a successful end if and only if it is well planned before execution.  The first and foremost step is to adhere to the working guidelines before working on it. Once you are clear with what and how to do, divide the work among yourselves according to individual expertise. This step by step and planned procedure is a sure shot to get the best work and impress your boss.

• Unhealthy working conditions: an employer is sure to quit the job if he/she gets over stressed due to working atmosphere of the organization. Long working hours, no leaves, tough projects and stressful responsibilities are always the factors to incorporate hatred for the work. This irritates an employee and an irritated employee is a major cause of workplace conflicts. The Harvard Gazette reports 36% of workers are stressed, which ends up costing $30 billion annually in lost work days. As a manager, one should avoid employee burnouts as it would force the employees to become rude and filled with stress, which will gradually become a reason of quitting of jobs.

• Poor staff selection: conflicts can never be completely avoided in any workplace, but they can surely be minimized by selecting a good and able staff. As an employer, you must incorporate those people who suit best for the job. Selecting someone who has no clue about technical skills or is unable to communicate well is surely to be a major reason for conflicts. Try to take feedback from existing staff and then select the best suited person.