Broadly speaking, there are two kinds of workplace conflict when having a meeting: when people’s ideas, decisions or actions relating directly to the job are in opposition, or when two people just don’t get along. Sound familiar……………….. This type of workplace conflict is bad for business, because it can lead to downturns in productivity and increases in absenteeism.
Poor communication is one of the main causes of conflict between employees in a meeting. This can result in a difference in communication styles or a failure to communicate. Poor communication in the workplace not only causes conflict but decreases productivity and employee morale.
Dealing with conflict can be one of the most stressful parts of a Facilitator’s role in a meeting drawing time and energy away from the activities around which their performance is measured. But with the right training and a selection of proactive and remedial approaches in their portfolio of managerial tools and techniques, managers can successfully prevent workplace conflicts from escalating.
Here are some tips for running effective team meetings:
Tip 1 – Have a meeting agenda with clear objectives.
Tip 2 – Set an end time and stick to it.
Tip 3 – Designate a meeting leader or chair
Tip 4 – Cut down on meetings – do you really need a meeting?
Tip 5 – Create action items and accountability.
Tip 6 – Bring solutions to the meeting.
Decide if you can resolve the conflict or need help: As a manager, you may be able to resolve simple disputes in a meeting but complex situations that are sensitive, long-standing or involve several parties call for specialist skills. In this case, the best course of action is to seek help from your HR department or an external source. For an organisation to outperform its competitors, its employees need to live the desired culture and buy into the vision while working in a harmonious workplace. For more information on our Leadership at Work Course Content Click Here
Arrange next steps and inform all parties: This will minimise uncertainty and reassure all involved that action is being taken, helping to reduce any further damage in future meetings.
When specialist help is required, The Proven Group offers an impartial conflict resolution service that is designed to protect relationships and reputations by removing you, the employer or manager, from a situation that could have damaging consequences. Get in touch to arrange a confidential, no-obligation discussion.
