PRINCIPLES of BUSINESS

Resolving Conflict at Work

Objectives
By the end of this presentation you should be able to:
Define the term ‘conflict’
Identify potential source of conflict within an
organization
List the effect of conflicts in the workplace
Outline strategies used by employers and employees to
gain an upper hand during conflict
Describe strategies for resolution of conflict within an
organization
Establish guidelines for the conduct of good
management and staff relations in the workplace
What is a conflict?
⦿ Conflict is defined as a clash between individuals arising out
of a difference in thought process, attitudes, understanding,
interests, requirements and even sometimes perceptions. 

⦿ It may be describe as a clash of interest, ideas or objectives

between one or more individuals within an organization.

⦿ Conflict may exist between employees, between managers at the

same or different levels or between employees and managers
What are some source of conflict
in the workplace?
⦿ Discrimination against employees based on
race, gender, or sexual orientation
⦿ Unfair wages
⦿ Poor working conditions
⦿ Job loses or changes because of downsizing
or expansion
⦿ Favoritism
 What can an employers do to reduce the
risk of conflicts and disputes?
I. Improving pay and working conditions
II. Provide employees with the necessary tools to get
their jobs done adequately
III. Recognizing and rewarding employees for good
performance
IV. Developing equal opportunities policies for all
employees, regardless or race, gender or age
V. Using teamwork
VI. Listening to employees
Strategies Used by Employees to get
a Upper Hand
⦿ Work to rule
⦿ Go-slow
⦿ Overtime ban
⦿ Sick-out
⦿ Sit-in
⦿ Strike action
Strategies Used by Employees
to get a Upper Hand
⦿ Lock-outs
⦿ The hire of temporary labor
⦿ Refusal to negotiate with employees or
their representatives
⦿ Scare tactics
Research for next class
⦿ Strategies Used to Resolve
Disputes/Conflicts in the workplace
⦿ The Role of Trade Unions
⦿ Establishing Good Management-Staff
Relations