Dealing with tough situations at work

At work you may be involved in tough situations, such as conflict with other employees or with your management team. This can cause anxiety and panic, so we’ve put together some ways to help you keep a positive mindset and handle tough situations at work. 

1. Think before you react. Impulsive behaviour can increase conflicts and escalate situations. Before dealing with any form of conflict you should stop, think, and prepare to deal with it in the best possible way. Often, sleeping on an issue makes the solution much clearer.

2. Don’t attack the person, find the solution. Make sure that any conflict is dealt with effectively. It may feel like it’s a person that’s the problem, but it’s important to look past the initial confrontation and find the root cause of the conflict.

3. Communication is key. Speak directly to the people in charge, or involved in, the situation if necessary. Don’t gossip about the situation with others in the workplace and do your best to resolve the issue quickly and professionally.

4. Determine how serious the situation is. Depending on what/who the situation involves, different actions may be necessary. Make sure you understand the situation and follow your organisation’s policies.

5. Think to the future. Any conflicts or tough situations may seem worse at first. Make sure to look past this and see what future goals you have and how you can achieve them. Always look at what is best for you and your life aspirations.

6. Keep an open door. If you are a manager or in a position where staff come to you, it is important to try and create a happy and positive workplace for your staff. An open-door policy will make it easier for employees to feel comfortable coming to you with any issues or concerns they have.

7. Listen to everyone. If you are trying to resolve a conflict or an employee has come to you for advice on a situation, make sure that you listen to everyone involved. Make sure you get every side of the story and can factor in everyone’s feelings.

8. Take note of the situation. Whether it is a conflict or a tough situation, make sure that anything you have witnessed or been a part of is documented in a secure, private place. Keep a note of everything that has happened, so you have everything together for future reference.

9. Arrive at a solution. Make sure you and everyone involved is aware of the solution, how it involves them, and what the next steps would be.

There are many different types of situations and conflicts that can arise when in the workplace but with the right mindset and approach they can be settled and moved past without any disruption to your wellbeing.

You may also find this article useful: Advocating for yourself at work