With employees returning to the office, in some cases under duress, the workplace may be more contentious than usual.
Many business leaders, who thought in-person work would heighten collaboration and teamwork, are experiencing a backlash to this approach and running into roadblocks.
Employees have different viewpoints on things such as mask requirements, vaccination protocols, government mandates and in-person work policies, which can lead to division and conflict if not managed properly.
As employers work to implement the best processes and procedures that are good for the business and take into consideration the needs and safety of employees, it is clear that no single path will work well for everyone.
Below are four steps business leaders can take to address employee conflict and help keep the peace in the workplace:
Establish ground rules
Business leaders who establish ground rules upfront should experience less conflict in the workplace. Leaders should take the time to explain that everyone is in this together, and the company is making the best possible decisions to forge a path forward.
When employees have clear expectations about the policies and understand the ramifications of failing to comply, there should be fewer surprises and less reason to voice their displeasure.
Managers make choices daily that will impact their employees directly. These decisions can cause concern for some employees; however, it should not hinder the company’s overarching mission and daily operations if adequately communicated to the workforce.
Emphasize mission and values
The company’s mission and values serve as a North Star that informs and guides all business decisions, team goals and employee behaviors, leading to greater business success. During times of conflict, leaders need to emphasize the company’s mission and values, reminding employees of why the team exists and how achieving their goals ties back to the company’s success.
It can be easy for employees to get wrapped up in their own circumstances and lose sight of the common goal.
However, when leaders pull teams together and help them focus on the job at hand, some of the perceived conflict may seem less important and diminish as they work to achieve set benchmarks.
Encourage mutual respect
Respect for all individuals is a crucial attribute that successful organizations instill in the fabric of their culture.
Therefore, while conversations among employees with diverse viewpoints can become heated and tensions can rise, leaders must encourage respect for others and suggest refraining from contentious topics, if possible.
However, everyone is entitled to his or her opinion, and if discussions around controversial topics surface, responsible adults can handle them in a thoughtful and polite manner with mutual respect that maintains harmony.
Practice empathy
After months of life-changing experiences, leaders should remember that employees are not the same as when they left, and many could be on edge when they return to the office.
However, when leaders practice empathy and take the time to actively listen and understand the needs and concerns of their employees, it demonstrates genuine care for the individual. This sets a great example for employees of all levels as they think twice before expressing opinions that can create conflict.
When business leaders establish ground rules; emphasize the company’s mission and values; encourage mutual respect; and practice empathy, it will help pave the way for less employee conflict and more teamwork.
Amy Marcum is manager of HR services with Insperity, a provider of human resources and business performance solutions.