Navigating the workplace isn’t always an easy task. Conflict between employees or with upper management is bound to happen. In fact, 60 to 80 percent of all problems in organizations stem from strained relationships between employees. But what can you do to manage conflict when it occurs, especially when it’s with your direct manager?
Before steam comes out your ears and you fear for your job, consider the following ways to manage conflict with your boss:
Step 1: Take a step back and assess the situation.
It’s important to take yourself out of the situation before having any discussions. You should determine the cause of the conflict between you and your boss. Does the issue stem from a personality conflict, or is there something larger going on? If possible, you should document all incidences of this situation or issue (i.e., save old emails, voicemails, or other documents that pertain to the situation). This will safeguard you in the event that the situation requires action from HR.
Step 2: Look at all sides of the issue.
You need to analyze the situation and make sure you understand your boss’s side of the conflict. Does your boss have any determining factors that may be influencing his or her behavior or actions? It’s also helpful to consider your boss’s personality — what makes them happy and what makes them angry? You’ll likely want to cater toward the former in your discussion.
Step 3: Avoid gossip and instead talk behind closed doors.
The worst thing you can do is gossip with coworkers about the situation. Gossip in the workplace increases tension and deteriorates teamwork in the office. If you really need to talk to someone, do so behind closed doors.
Step 4: Discuss the issue and solution with your boss privately and professionally.
If you’re fuming about an issue, it’s easy to forget you’re at work. But that’s exactly what you shouldn’t forget! Keep calm and stay professional when meeting with your boss privately. Discuss solutions to the problem in addition to the cause. This will facilitate a discussion rather than an accusation session. But most importantly, listen to what your boss has to say regarding the conflict. It isn’t all about you.
Step 5: Wait it out.
Timing is often everything when managing conflict with a boss. Sometimes it makes more sense to wait it out than confront the situation head on. If your boss has a lot on his or her plate this month, their stress level may be high and they might not take as kindly to your issues.
If you find that waiting it out and confronting your boss isn’t solving the conflict, don’t hesitate to contact your HR representative to set up a meeting. Regardless of the situation, keep your behavior professional and know you’re not the first to incur conflict with your boss!
If you’ve had issues with upper management, what strategies helped you manage conflict?
