Each of us brings a different personality and perspective to the relationship and that's what draws people to us in the first place. Our different personalities help determine how we initially deal, or in some cases, not deal with conflict. Inevitable as conflict may be, there are some costly ways of handling the situation that may end up causing more problems for relationships.

The goal to minimizing and preventing the incidence of conflict at work is to use some common tools to help everyone get going in the same direction:

• Identify the problem and everyone involved in the issue. Allow every person to clarify their position and express opinions on how to solve the conflict. If necessary establish a time limit for each person to state their case.


• Identify the ideal ending to the conflict from each person's perspective. It might be surprising for everyone to discover that their ideal results are not so far apart from each other.


• Realistically set goals that can be achieved. Talk about how achieving these objectives will affect other projects and individual goals.


• Compromise. Find something that everyone agrees on and start from there.


• Always discuss issues out in the open before they become problems


• Have a process for resolving office disagreements and make sure everyone is clear on the process


• Keep company goals and employee expectations clear and easy to understand


• Provide training for conflict resolution and expect staff to use them


• Praise co-workers and staff on successes, even if it is small.

Studies have found that employees who feel valued and appreciated are less likely to start fights. It's never easy to overcome a conflict in any relationship. It takes hard work, determination and patience. The most effective way to help your relationships grow and remain intact is to face them together. If you find yourself in a sticky situation, talk to your co-workers. Your co-worker or manager may be feeling the same tension and working through it as a cohesive unit will promote a much healthier and open work environment. Most conflicts can be avoided by taking time to acknowledge and listen to another person's point of view. Learning to be flexible to the ever shifting needs and quirks of the business and employee needs will ensure resiliency and strength during the work week.

Hold regular meetings and discuss conflict resolution. This will give everyone some ideas on how they can work on resolving conflicts with their co-workers and it can help them avoid letting a small situation get out of control. Encourage employees to provide input on how you can find ways to make the office a cohesive unit. Take their ideas into consideration as this will boost employee morale if you actually implement some of their ideas.

To avoid miscommunication in the office, establish simple reporting procedures and email procedures. It is easy for an entire office to become confused if you send out an email that is unclear. For precise directions, hold a meeting to discuss them and then send the email to remind them of your conversation. This will eliminate any confusion you may have with your employees.