Disagreements Are Not Fatal
What does it take for professionals to speak up about work-related disagreements?
I deliver conflict management courses to healthcare professionals, and a recurring subject is how to even start a conversation about a potential conflict — and also work together afterwards?
Workplace disagreements can arise suddenly, unpredictably, slowly, and unexpectedly.
💡 But one thing is certain: workplace disagreements amongst professionals will occur — in fact, they are inevitable — and will haunt the corridors like an ever-growing troll if ignored.
However, professionals may worry that voicing their concerns will escalate a disagreement into a conflict, or they may need reassurance as to where, who, and how a debate involving opposing views can be managed without quarrels and bad vibes ensuing.
⭐ So, what does it take for people working together to talk about how they work together?
As with most other work-related issues, conversations about disagreements call for leadership and a willingness to embrace disparate perspectives.
Conversations about disagreements lead to meaningful change when leadership can:
➡ Demonstrate that talking about conflicts is not the same as taking sides
➡Pose questions to clarify statements rather than to judge opinions
➡Explore options rather than rushing into the quick fix
➡Set clear goals for a resolution — this plants the idea that disagreements are acknowledged, are not fatal, and can be worked through
Thank you for reading.
