12
A GovLoop Guide
Constructive Paths Through Workplace Conflict Without the right tools, conflict resolution can be as fraught as the dispute itself. What’s more,
working things out is about way more than a productive conversation. It involves body language as much as spoken words and the tone in which you speak, according to Kevin Coleman, an Empowerment Coach and General Services Administration Analyst.
“We’re always going to have conflict,” Coleman said. “When you see it, you’ve got to know how to navigate through it vs. being absorbed by it.”
What Causes Conflict in the Workplace? The top instigator is harassment, including bullying, Coleman said. Other common ones are: • Increased workloads • Lack of skills and training • Negative work environment • Opposing personalities • Poor management or leadership styles • Unfair treatment, such as a leader favoring or disliking someone • Unrealistic expectations from managers
Try This: Have a conflict
at work? Identify what the cause(s) may be.
