Commons causes of conflict at work include:
- Unfair treatment
- Unclear job roles
- Insufficient training
- Poor management
- Poor communications
- Poor work environment
- Bullying and harassment
- Lack of equal opportunities
ACAS identified the above factors in 'Managing Conflict at Work'. Some of these issues can be the direct cause of the conflict, for instance discrimination and bullying may be direct causes in themselves. Sometimes however the causes of conflict may suddenly flare-up after remaining dormant for years. Conflict can be sparked off by:
- the personalities involved
- employees' changing needs and expectations
- employees ignoring common values
- unresolved problems from the past
- increases in workload
Employers will often have strategies and procedures in place for attempting to prevent conflicts arising, managing conflict once it has arisen, and deciding when and how outside help, including the possible use of workplace mediators, will be sought.
Stephen Wood is an ADR Group Accredited Workplace Mediator and an ADR Group Accredited Civil & Commercial Mediator as well as a Consultant litigation Solicitor. Stephen has worked in dispute resolution for over 15 years and combines sound commercial acumen with creative thinking and strong analytical skills. A good listener and an empathetic mediator, Stephen is alert to the personal and emotional issues which often need to be overcome to facilitate a successful long-term resolution to a dispute. Contact Stephen Wood Mediation to discuss whether mediation could be suitable for your workplace dispute.
