Are you concerned that you may have had a conflict with a coworker? Don’t worry as work conflict is a part of life that cannot be avoided. It is okay to have different views. When two or more people work together, conflict can occur. Because people think in different ways. There may be conflicts and differences among fellow workers. Work conflicts can lead to issues with teamwork and performance, if they are not resolved in time. Common types of workplace conflicts need quick handling in order to lead to better ideas, effective communication, and good work relations.

Almost every company will experience work conflict at some time. This has become somewhat of an outbreak in recent years, with 85% of workers report some types of work conflict.

It is in everyone’s best interests to avoid workplace conflict. Team unity is broken, and in the worst case scenarios, legal cases ca be filed. Most of all it has adverse effects on mental health.

So it is critical to understand the various types of work conflict, how they differ, and how to handle each type of conflict in order to resolve it. Companies and their workers may both benefit from plan of work conflicts solutions.

Let us discus some types of work conflicts that are common in workplace.

  Many of the problems at work can occur due to poor conversation and misunderstanding. Both boss and workers have a duty to do all efforts to promote a peaceful workplace.

The following types of work conflict are caused by miscommunication, close mindedness, and passive aggressive behavior.

1. Task Based Conflicts

This type of conflict may occur between workers when working in a group setting. It involves a confusion of who is responsible for the different work duties that have been given. You may be upset that others are not putting that much effort in to the work as you.

For instance, you need to make a report but the other member who has to provide you all the data required, has not provided it to you yet. This will effect the performance and relations of the team.

In order to resolve this conflict

• Divide the work with definite roles and due dates.
• Clarify what each person’s role should include so that everyone is on the same page when due date comes.

2. Work Style Conflicts

Just like personality, everyone has their own style of working. Some people may work better with help while some need their own workspace and independence to work. Similarly some like to complete their work early while some complete their work just in time.

For instance, you may perform best under short timeline, yet your boss may want you to produce work earlier than planned. As a result, if the other person or your boss is unhappy with your work style, then conflicts may occur.

In order to resolve this conflict

• Mutual respect is the key.
• We should accept each other’s work styles as long as the job is completed correctly and on time.
• Companies should connect with their workers first, as well as understand their worker’s needs.

3. Personality Conflicts

Every person is unique in their own ways. We like or reject people based on our personalities. We don’t always get along with everyone we meet, and to work with someone who has a different personality than us can be difficult.

For instance, one person may be open to new experiences and try new ways of doing things, whereas another may be inflexible and strict, wanting to do things the old way. Another instance is that you may prefer plain basic colors, while others prefer vibrant and distinct tones of color.

Further, diversity in views and actions, culture, religion, and background, can effect how we see and treat others.

In order to resolve this work conflict

• Above all, be respectful of other’s differences.
• You can have healthy conversations and share your likes and dislikes in a group setting.
• Companies should choose employees who are same for any group work.
• Training programs on workplace diversity and emotional control are also a smart way to avoid personality conflicts in your company.

4. Leadership Conflicts

Every person is unique and has a unique so every has their own approach to leadership. Some leaders are bold and powerful, while others are more calm, friendly, and approachable. Some are complex and follow strict rules and routines, while others are so subtle that they go unnoticed.

For instance, if your boss does not engage in active dialogue about work duties and instead simply gives orders. This can cause conflict between you and your boss.

In order to resolve this work conflict

• You should encourage mutual respect of differences within the workplace to resolve work conflicts.
• Leaders need to understand of their own management styles, as well as how they relate with the work styles and personalities of their teams.
• They should be ready to adjust and engage with their workers regardless of their leadership style.

5. Creative Conflicts

Conflicts over ideas and creativity are more likely to occur when you work in a team. People may give unique suggestions at work and respond differently to different ideas, which can cause competition and work conflict. Although working with ideas that are completely different from your own idea or challenge it may be tough.

For instance, suppose you came up with a unique work plan, but the other person disagrees and proposes a different work plan. This might lead to a conflict between you and your colleague.

In order to resolve this work conflict

• It’s important to keep the team on the same page when it comes to respect and understanding.
• Assure that everyone pays attention to and listens to the views of others without being rude or offensive.

If you are looking for tips on how to cope with common types of workplace conflicts, check out Epsychonline article “Handling Conflicts at Work.”

Start a course at Epsychonline now named “DBT for Anger” or “Perfectionism” to better regulate your emotions and actions at work and avoid any type of workplace conflict.

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