Eight Ways to Prevent Conflict

Conflict is much easier to manage and prevent when you know about its common causes. So, what are these?

Find out with this week's featured article on Bell and Hart's Eight Causes of Conflict.

We're also looking at how you can best manage team conflict, and we find out how your people can use the Johari Window to build great relationships with one another.

Understanding the Causes of Workplace Tension

You've just arrived at your office, which you share with a colleague, and it looks as if it's going to be another frustrating day. Your side of the office is neat as a pin and incredibly well organized. You always arrive at work on time and you take care not to talk loudly when you're on the phone, so that you don't disturb your office mate. Your colleague, however, is the exact opposite. Empty cups and stacks of dusty files litter his side of the office. He often rushes into the office late, and he sometimes puts the radio on while he's working, which breaks your concentration. You love your work, but dread coming into the office every day, simply because you don't like sharing your space with your colleague. He drives you crazy, and you often argue. Learn how to prevent, recognize, and manage conflict effectively © iStockphoto/Kuklev

If you thought about it, you'd quickly recognize that there's conflict between you because the two of you have completely different working styles. Once you'd realized this, you'd have a starting point for thinking about how you could work together more effectively. READ MORE