Identifying and Preventing Conflicts in the Workplace

Conflicts & TensionsTeamwork & CooperationAll employees≈ 20 min

Key skill: Conflict management & resolution

Summary

Workplace conflict rarely comes down to personalities alone. This course teaches you to trace it back to its three external sources — economic environment, work organization, relationships — so you can spot tension early and choose the right resolution strategy.

Target audience

Anyone who has to manage conflict at work

Learning objectives

Manage workplace conflict more effectively by tracing it back to what caused it.
Identify sources of conflict linked to the economic and cultural environment.
Minimize tensions caused by poorly organized work.
Establish calm, effective communication among team members and with management.

Module outline

ArticlesA concrete example of managing irritants: Auchan's "It Bugs Me!" board · The different sources of workplace conflict and their impact
Expert videoAn analysis of the 3 main external sources of workplace conflict: environment, organization, and relationships
AnchoringQuizzes and true/false questions to dive deeper into the topic and lock in what you've learned
Memo cardA downloadable coaching memo card: the key points from the expert video
CommitmentConcrete examples to help you define your own commitment

Models & methods

Grid of the three external sources of conflict: environment, organization, relationships; Poitras's typology: personality, social skills.

Research-based

Jean Poitras, Canadian professor (MOOC on mediation); 30% of employees rated their manager as "poor" (2012); the Auchan example.