It is impossible, and not necessary, to avoid conflict in a team. It is part of any live interaction and group dynamics. However, knowing how to manage conflicts is helpful so that the working group does not disintegrate but continues to work effectively and communicate constructively. The full guide on how to manage conflicts you can find following https://cmaconsulting.com.au link.

However, we have prepared 10 tips on how to work with conflict.

1. Never expose conflicts to the public. It does not matter – whether you drink coffee in the cafeteria or talk with colleagues in the smoking room – try not to mention conflict situations. It’s much better to seek common ground with a colleague or discuss a conflict with your supervisor than to become a gossip peddler.

2. Always check the information you receive. People will spread gossip – but don’t become a repeater. Check the credibility and reliability of the source before sharing.

If a conflict does arise, don’t play the hero, and don’t try to stop it on your own. Even if you are familiar with the conflict management rules, it is better to consult your supervisor and thoroughly investigate the situation.

4. If you are a manager, encourage open communication. If you need to convey information to the department, don’t call team members into your office one by one. It’s best to go out to the team and break the news openly. The same principle should be used in department-wide communication – allow your subordinates to report problems openly. This approach will make the team’s work more transparent and increase trust.

The only thing you shouldn’t do openly is criticize employees.

5. Don’t overreact. During a conflict, it’s hard to keep your emotions in check because the adrenaline level is off the charts. But try to control yourself. If you feel your emotions running high, take a pause to cool down. A cold mind will help you resolve the conflict, while emotions will only hurt.

6. If you’ve had conflicts with the same team member, analyze previous experiences. Reflect on what caused the conflict last time and your opponent’s temperament, and look for patterns and the nature of the conflict. Drawing conclusions from previous experiences will make it much easier for you to resolve or avoid new conflicts.

7. If conflict cannot be avoided, discuss only work issues. Do not turn to personalities under any circumstances. This is not only unethical but also harmful. In addition, it will not help solve the problem.

8. Arguments and facts. Always build your argument with facts. Only the facts will help defend your point of view, and only the facts will operate the boss if he has to moderate a conflict.

9. Take a broader view of the world. Even if you’re 100% sure you’re right, look at the situation from the outside. Often a seemingly unambiguous position looks utterly different if you look at it from a different angle. Always listen to your opponent and try to understand him.

10. Think two steps ahead. Every step you take, action, and word affects the future. People often can’t help themselves during a conflict and say something unnecessary. Be smart and remember tip number 5.