Effective Problem Solving and Conflict Management involves supporting and requiring consistent, respectful, and effective discussion and resolution of issues. Those who fail to do so are held accountable as needed.
The National Standard of Canada for Psychological Health and Safety in the Workplace (the Standard) requires leaders to be competent to manage, lead and supervise employees in a way that is psychologically safe. One of the core aspects of psychologically safe leadership relates to effective solving of workplace problems and effective resolution of conflict.
What is Problem Solving & Conflict Management and why does it matter?
Effective Problem Solving and Conflict Management involves supporting and requiring consistent, respectful, and effective discussion and resolution of issues. Those who fail to do so are held accountable as needed.
Why does strengthening skills in Problem Solving and Conflict Management matter?
- Perceptions of fairness are sustained
- Morale remains high
- Conflict can become productive
- Employees are held accountable for their actions
- Challenges can be addressed and resolved effectively
- Risk of more serious workplace issues is reduced
- The need for stress-related absence is reduced
- There are fewer barriers to quality work
So, how do leaders improve their problem solving and conflict management skills in the workplace?
- Place high value on civility and fair treatment in the workplace.
- Never tolerate disrespectful or inappropriate behaviour, regardless of current workplace demands and stressors.
- Make efforts to hear from employees about any challenges they’re facing, and work with employees on solutions.
- Be aware of how employees are handling work demands. If the team is struggling to keep up with the workload, collaborate with employees to make adjustments.
- Check in regarding how employees are feeling after changes are made to see if the adjustments made a positive impact.
- Offer support for employees during times of high stress or demand.
When conflicts do arise, deal with them promptly. Attempt to defuse tension. Listen to everyone involved and remain neutral. Do not allow disrespectful or inappropriate behaviour or communication. Come up with a solution that is as fair as possible and maintains the dignity of everyone involved.
Consider ways that you can enhance Problem Solving and Conflict Management within your organization – remember, there’s always room for improvement!
The Psychological Safety Leader Assessment or PSLA is an assessment tool developed by Dr. Joti Samra, MyWorkplaceHealth’s CEO & Founder, made for leaders to self- assess how they fare across 5 key domains of leadership, which align with the requirements of the Standard. These 5 domains are: Communication and Collaboration, Social Intelligence, Problem Solving and Conflict Management, Security and Safety, and Fairness and Integrity.
