Disagreements at work
Disagreements are a natural part of a work community’s operations and occur in all work communities, regardless of the industry, management system and size of the workplace. Whenever you have a bunch of people together, anything can happen.
One might think that disagreements should be avoided in the workplace. However, the opposite is true: disagreements are actually beneficial. They indicate that there is something related to the work that needs to be reviewed, clarified, corrected or changed. In other words, disagreements help to develop the work and the work community’s operations.
Work-related disputes should be resolved in good time, as situations do not resolve themselves if you just avoid them or keep quiet. The sooner you tackle an issue, the better. If a dispute is left unresolved, it will make work and co-operation more difficult. When prolonged, a disagreement can lead to negative behaviour towards another person, even harassment or other inappropriate treatment.
It is important to remember that most disputes are caused by ambiguities related to work arrangements, not by someone being difficult on purpose. Typical examples are conflicting or incomplete instructions, unclear job descriptions, responsibilities or expectations or issues related to the tools or working conditions.
Work must be planned and dimensioned so that there is sufficient time to discuss work-related matters during the work day or shift. It is also important that everyone has the will and skills needed to handle disagreements. When we succeed in dealing with disagreements, it strengthens trust and psychological safety and encourages us to address difficult or anticipated situations at an earlier stage.
Solution-oriented discussions
Professionalism means that we discuss matters that seem difficult to us appropriately and without offending others. Part of professionalism is also that work-related matters are handled at the workplace and in accordance with any jointly agreed operating models. Generally, it would be good if a dispute could be resolved and handled between the parties concerned.
When resolving a dispute, it is advisable to discuss the matter in a solution-oriented manner and avoid things such as searching for who is to blame. You can do the following:
- Describe the situation or matter that needs to be cleared up. Explain things in a concrete manner.
- Explain how the situation or matter affects you or your work.
- Describe how you would like the situation or matter to change.
Seek a joint solution to the situation. Remember to listen to each other’s perspectives and ask for clarifications, if necessary. Practise speaking directly and without insulting.
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