Workplace Conflicts

Lack of communication in the workplace can occur between supervisor and employees, as well as between individual employees. Failure to communicate effectively can often leads to conflict, which can harm the organization. Unresolved conflicts can results in feelings of dissatisfaction, unhappiness, hopelessness, depression and other emotional stresses. Conflict arises from poor communication may lead to personality clashes and poor performance. Understand how to effectively communicate, and how to satisfactory resolve disputes, can lead to a happier, more productive workplace. Open communication is the means by which disagreement can be prevented, managed, or resolved.
Poor communication can create conflict in a number of ways. A lack of communication can create uncertainty that leads to stress and conflict. For instance, one worker may be waiting for a colleague to deliver key information so he can complete a task on time. If the colleague does not respond to the worker's request, the worker may begin to worry that the colleague will not deliver in a timely manner. As a result, conflict between the two may occur. Companies with limited resources, such as office equipment, may experience conflict if workers don't communicate their needs for the resources. Companies often rely on teams to complete special projects or even to carry out the routine functions of a department. If members of the team do not communicate well with each other, it may not be clear what roles and responsibilities each member must assume, leading to confusion and conflict between team members and the ultimate failure to achieve the objectives. Poor communication can lead to the spread of rumors and gossip, which can create tension among employees.
In resolving conflict, it is important to openly acknowledging there will be differing perceptions of the problem. Make a clear statement of why you want the conflict resolved and reasons to work on conflict. Communication of how you want the