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Published 22 March 2023 | 2 min read
If left unchecked, workplace conflict can quickly escalate, causing even greater damage to your business.
As a small business owner in New Zealand, you know that conflict in the workplace can be a major headache. Whether it's a disagreement between employees or a dispute with a client, workplace conflict can impact productivity, morale, and even the bottom line. As the end of the financial year approaches, it's more important than ever to ensure your business is set up for success in the coming year. That's why we're here to provide guidance on navigating workplace conflict.
Workplace conflict can take many forms, from disagreements between team members to issues with clients or customers. Not only can it lead to a decrease in productivity and morale, but it can also lead to increased absenteeism and turnover. For small-to-medium businesses in New Zealand, where every employee counts, the impact of workplace conflict can be particularly significant.
If left unchecked, workplace conflict can quickly escalate, causing even greater damage to your business. For example, imagine a small business owner in Auckland who had two key employees who couldn't see eye-to-eye. Despite repeated attempts to resolve the issue, the tension continued to build until one of the employees decided to quit. Not only did this leave the business short-staffed, but it also damaged morale and caused other team members to question their job security.
But what if there was a better way to handle workplace conflict? What if, instead of letting it escalate, small businesses could address conflict in a proactive and constructive way? This is where mediation and conflict resolution training comes in. By establishing clear communication channels and providing training to employees, businesses can create a culture of respect and understanding, reducing the likelihood of conflict in the first place.
Of course, conflict is bound to happen at some point, even in the best of workplaces. But by having the tools and processes in place to address it effectively, businesses can turn conflict into an opportunity for growth and improvement. By addressing conflict head-on, businesses can prevent it from escalating and potentially causing even greater damage.
So, what can small businesses do to navigate workplace conflict?
1. Establish clear communication channels and encourage employees to raise issues as soon as they arise.
2. Provide mediation and conflict resolution training to employees, so they have the skills to address conflict constructively.
3. Create a culture of respect and understanding, where differences are celebrated and employees feel valued.
At HR Today, we can help you identify areas where your business may be falling short when it comes to handling workplace conflict.
Our HR & Workplace Review for 2023 can provide valuable insights into your HR practices, helping you to identify gaps and make improvements where necessary. By taking proactive steps to address workplace conflict, small businesses in New Zealand can create a positive, productive, and harmonious work environment for all.