Be calm when handling conflict in the workplace. We should refrain from blaming others but analyse the reasons behind the conflict objectively and examine our own behaviour and attitude in the conflict situation. For instance, is the conflict related to some unreasonable demands? Is it a personality clash? Is it just a difference of opinion? To resolve interpersonal conflict in the workplace, we should first let go of our bias, and try to listen and respect different points of view. With that platform, there may then be a chance to resolve the conflict and reach a consensus through communication.

As a supervisor, you can play an important role in helping subordinates handle interpersonal conflicts at work. You can make use of the conflict resolution techniques to alleviate the tension in the group. You can help subordinates identify where their conflict lies by encouraging them to give voice to their perceptions and accepting the need to understand the views of the other party -and by describing the conflict as a problem that needs to be solved by both parties working together. Then you can help them to devise various solutions, to analyse the pros and cons of the choices, to select an option and then to implement it collaboratively.

Effective communication is the key in managing conflicts at work. With open-mindedness, divergent opinions or even disagreements can help generate new ideas and may even turn into positive momentum at work.

Advanced Stress Management Workshop
Management of Emotions

PSG will organise a workshop on "Management of Emotions" for participants to gain awareness into the relationship between their own thoughts and emotions, and to learn a set of skills to manage their negative emotions.

Date: Saturday, May 17 from 9 am to 5 pm. Venue: PSG Hong Kong Office, 5/F 111 Leighton Road, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong. Participants: maximum 20 on a first-come-first-served basis. Registration: Contact PSG at 2866-6207