Handling workplace conflicts: 7 tips for getting along on the job - Quincy Herald-Whig | Illinois & Missouri News, Sports

It's often said that your co-workers are your second family. And like a family, co-workers can have serious disagreements.

Conflicts on the job -- even with peers -- are no small matter. The person you clash with today could be your manager tomorrow. Maintaining positive working relationships is preferable no matter what your situation. If ignored, workplace conflicts can lead to:

• Stress and anxiety
• Depression
• Reduced productivity
• Disciplinary actions
• Termination
• Other career problems

Here are seven things you can do to achieve a more peaceful work environment:

1. Accept that conflict is common

In fact, it's a natural part of everyday life. People get into work-related disputes for all kinds of reasons, including:

• Fear of change
• Uncertainty about responsibilities
• Lack of resources
• Conflicts of interest
• Differences in background and personality

A disagreement with a co-worker shouldn't be personal. It is often a sign that both of you care about your jobs and want what's best for the company.

2. Don't let it fester

Calmly address your differences when they arise. Ignoring them now could lead to bigger problems later on. What starts as a minor disagreement can have a way of snowballing into a major personality clash. This is something you should try to avoid.

3. Clarify your differences

Don't assume you know your co-worker's position or that he or she knows yours. Talking about your differences -- and listening to the other -- helps each of you understand where the other one stands.

• Find a quiet place where the two of you can talk alone.
• Start by asking the other person's opinion or position.
• Be respectful and keep a friendly tone.
• Let the other person talk uninterrupted.
• Explain your position as well.
• Try to determine where you agree and where you don't.
• Offer to look for a compromise solution.

4. Make sure differences are professional, not personal

Do your best to avoid personality clashes. Not only are they detrimental to those involved, they can affect the entire workplace as well. Speaking poorly of a co-worker's habits or appearance does not reflect well on you. It can even land you in some seriously hot water.

5. Watch what you don't say

You may not realize it, but your body language can cause problems for you too. Your co-workers know how to read your nonverbal cues. When discussing sensitive issues, do your best to avoid making confrontational gestures like:

• Rolling your eyes
• Sighing
• Turning away
• Making angry expressions
• Crossing your arms
• Raising your voice

Instead, try smiling or nodding, and use gestures that show you respect the other person's thoughts and feelings.

6. Consider mediation

Sometimes disagreements are too big to work out on your own. If so, see if a third party can help. This may be your manager. Or sometimes another co-worker may be able to intervene. Some employers even offer mediators you can use. If you think this could help, don't hesitate to request it. Talk to your human resources representative about your options.

7. Don't take it home with you

At the end of the day, all disagreements should be left at the office. Yes, your work is important, but it's not your whole life. Dwelling on office conflicts could end up affecting your other relationships. Instead, keep things in perspective. Remember that by preserving the quality of your personal life, you enhance your ability to perform at work, too.