Conflict management in the workplace
Conflicts are a common part of working life. When conflicts continue over a longer period of time, they risk escalating. This often has a negative impact on your employees’ mental health and well-being.
Over time, this leads to poorer performance and increased sick leave. For the company, it can become both demanding and costly if conflict management is not carried out properly and in time.
As a manager, you have a significant responsibility to prevent problems and promote a healthy psychosocial work environment, so that your employees can feel safe at work.
Seek external mediation support early
It is important to seek external support early. Otherwise, there is a risk that the conflict will deepen and become increasingly difficult to resolve.
It is common for purely task-related conflicts, which may concern how work should be carried out or distributed, to develop into relationship conflicts. Conflicts between individuals—relationship conflicts—are often much more difficult and take longer to resolve. They can also lead to sick leave, staff turnover, and loss of productivity. Therefore, do not wait too long before seeking help from an external party.
Support for Managers and HR
An external and neutral party, such as an organizational consultant, helps you resolve the conflict in a constructive way. This is done by creating a safe space where both parties can be heard and share their view of what happened.
The purpose is to clarify disagreements and identify shared interests and goals in order to find a long-term solution. The aim is to ensure effective collaboration and clear communication.
Support from an organizational consultant may also involve helping HR or the manager with conflict management or handling difficult conversations. This depends on the nature of the conflict and the needs of the organization.
Benefits of Conflict Management
- Strengthens the work environment
- Improves collaboration
- Reduces costs related to sick leave, staff turnover, and loss of productivity
- Increases psychological safety and job satisfaction
- Increases productivity
- Enables sustainable solutions
“Conflict management enables organizations to identify and resolve tensions before they escalate.
This fosters a healthier work environment, reduces stress, and creates better conditions for sustainable solutions and effective collaboration.”
How we support companies with Conflict Management
All services are tailored to your organization’s and your specific needs.
Mapping Assessment & Analysis
- Interviews, dialogues and observations to gain a clear picture of the conflict and underlying issues.
Tailor-made action plan
- A plan based on your specific situation and needs.
Mediation & dialogue
- Facilitating dialogues and discussions between parties to encourage constructive communication and identify mutually beneficial solutions for involved employees.
Education & Training
- Customized training for managers and HR in how to handle difficult conversations and how to prevent future conflicts.
Follow-up & Support
- Following up and offering continued support and advice when needed.
