How “Cooler Heads” Extinguish “Heated” Workplace Conflict

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…The following is a public service announcement…

The workplace. When managed correctly, it’s a lush campground for collaboration, career building, and high fives. But, take caution! Adding more campers means greater susceptibility to out-of-control fires known as “workplace conflict.” Only you can prevent them!

A little workplace conflict is normal and healthy, like a control fire that sprouts diverse plant life or a campfire that ignites folksy sing-a-longs. It’s only when these fires get out of control that this beloved campground disintegrates into a barren wasteland. In this short video, you’ll learn some useful tips for stamping out those heated exchanges before your workplace becomes a blazing inferno of awkward.

Click to tweet this: Fill your bucket with listening, understanding, and honesty to extinguish workplace conflict. @DaveCrenshaw

Video transcript:

One of my viewers asked the question about how to handle workplace conflict and how to keep it contained.

Now it’s normal for there to be a little conflict in the workplace from day to day. But if left unchecked, it can spread into a wildfire. How do we control it?

Here are a few tips:

Number one, allow the other person to speak. Allow them to get everything out that’s on their mind before you say anything.

Second, ask them this question “What result are you trying to achieve?” In other words, we want to know what they want out of them expressing their frustration.

And then number three, when it’s your turn to speak, speak openly and candidly. Don’t expect the other person to read between the lines.

If you want to dive deeper into this important subject, I strongly recommend the book Crucial Conversations.

Now it’s your turn. What tip would you suggest to deal with workplace conflict?

Also, if you have a question you’d like me to answer in a future video, ask that below as well.

Thanks for watching and remember—only you can prevent wildfires.

Join the conversation: What tip would you suggest to deal with workplace conflict?

I respond to every question and comment. So, please, join the conversation!


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