Conflict Case

Solutions to On-the-Job Conflict

Author: A. Cunningham

Conflict between various workers is inevitable due to different personalities clashes. Conflicts can have a negative effect on businesses. Both employees and employers represent their businesses. Consumers like to be in a safe environment when they shop for a product or a service; if consumers see an adverse encounter between the workers and/or managers they are going to have a negative perception about that business. Therefore, organizations must try to stop and prevent conflicts at all costs. This essay will address various solutions to manage conflict on-the -job. The solutions include: informal discussions, focusing on common goals, and bringing in a mediator (Smith, 2014).

One solution to an on-the-job conflict is an informal discussion. The purpose of an informal discussion is so the opposing parties can discuss their problems in a peaceful manner without their superior or a mediator. Both parties should address their issues without blaming or insulting the other party. As a result of an informal discussion the issue is potentially addressed, making both parties aware of the other parties problems. This will help both parties to defuse a small problem before it gets out of control.

Another solution to an on-the-job conflict is to focus on common goals. Conflicting workers can try to bypass their negative problems by focusing on their shared company goals. This can calm tensions between the feuding parties. Focusing on common goals creates a different perspective between workers. In other words, instead of looking at the negatives both parties can come together and work towards a common goal and/or company project.

Lastly, a final solution for on-the-job conflict is bringing in a mediator. Bringing in a mediator should be considered as a last resort.