When Workplace Conflict Turns Ugly Posted

Where you have people, you’re going to have conflict. And the workplace is no exception.

As one of the top staffing firms in Florin – and throughout Northern California, we know that conflict typically arises out of stressful situations (think tight deadlines or complicated projects) or employees butting heads and not working well together as a result. This kind of conflict is all par for the course.

However, there are times when issues arise in the workplace that turn quickly from a simple conflict into a hostile confrontation. When this happens, how you react to the situation can be the deciding factor between a swift resolution or a major workplace battle.

To help you deal, here are some thoughts to keep in mind:

  • Stay calm. When an employee is flipping out – yelling, waving their arms wildly, etc. – rather than interrupt them, let them finish their tirade. If you interrupt, you’re demonstrating that you’re not really listening and don’t care about what the employee is upset about.
  • Be assertive, not aggressive. When they’re done, call them by their first name to get their attention. Then explain that you will listen and help them fix the problem, but that they need to lower their voice and calm down.
  • Paraphrase their grievances. Next, show that you understand what they’re saying by repeating what they just said. For instance, “I want to understand why you’re so upset. Just so I’m clear, it’s because of…(insert issue here). Is that right?” By paraphrasing what the employee said and asking if you are perceiving the situation accurately, you’re showing that you are listening, which will help to diffuse the situation immensely.

Hopefully, by taking the steps above, you will be on the road to having a productive conversation and solving the problem. If not, though, and this kind of behavior is becoming a regular occurrence for an employee, then perhaps it’s time to let him or her go.

If that’s the case, and you’re looking for a replacement, give us a call. As one of the top staffing firms in Florin – and throughout Northern California – we pride ourselves on digging deep and asking questions that reveal more than simply the technical skills required for a job…all so we can find a candidate that’s just right for you. Learn more now.