If you’re like most people, you avoid disagreements and arguments whenever possible. As uncomfortable as it may seem, the right kind of conflict can be an important business tool.
In fact, having appropriate conflict is how your team learns how to collaborate when solving problems.
Conflict in the workplace can be destructive if it simmers for too long before management steps in. As a manager, it’s your duty to allow healthy conflict, but moderate it before it becomes destructive.
Often, employees avoid conflict because they have to work together. They avoid any negative engagement because they’re afraid a confrontation will hurt relationships. Not true.
Your leadership in this area will teach them how healthy disagreement can help solve challenges and make work easier. The next time there is a disagreement, jump in and steer the process into a problem solving exercise by recognizing each person's perspective and allowing opinions that are contrary to the others. Over time, you will learn how to use this important business tool.