Preventing Conflict At Work
Four basic factors are needed to maintain a positive work environment.
- Clarity of roles and responsibilities in the company
It is important to understand the hierarchy of the company and who the leaders are. Conflicts can increase if there is unclear leadership.
- Establishment of systems and procedures
It is important to have routines that describe how certain tasks should be carried out in the business. In some companies, routines are documented. However, in the majority of businesses systems only exist “by doing”. It is still important to regularly evaluate work done to ensure that it can be improved.
- Secure communication and interaction/cooperation
It is important to have regular meetings with workers. The monthly staff meetings provide an opportunity for workers to ask questions and get information about changes and news. Conflicts can easily escalate without such meetings. Information is essential, but it’s also important to allow everyone to react to news and events.
This can be achieved by a meeting, whereas information letters or other forms of communication are only intended to communicate one way. Even some smaller units or workplaces in larger companies meet every morning for coffee or tea. This routine is important in conflict prevention as it allows for early communication and resolution of issues. Consider Corporate Team Building from a site like https://www.270climbing.com/group-activities/corporate-team-building
- Information and training are provided regularly
There is no way to tell every employee about all that goes on in the company. This should be the goal. If the leaders cannot provide the information, they must ensure that the information is disseminated, either verbally or in text form (posters or letters or pamphlets).
Training is required for any new activity. If new computer programmes are being installed, make sure that everyone will be trained on how to use them.