Article provided by Robyn Marsh at The TCM Group, an award-winning provider of mediation, investigation, transformational culture change and leadership development services
Spats between colleagues can bubble up over everything from seating arrangements and the temperature of the office to who is leading on projects and how resources are allocated. When disputes like these occur, it can cause massive disruptions in teams. Colleagues take sides, bad feeling festers, and productivity inevitably suffers. Organisations typically have formal processes to address conflict, but no one wants to see disputes escalate to the point where employees or their managers feel the need to go knocking on HR’s door with a view to invoking a disciplinary or grievance procedure. So, what can you do if you find yourself in the role of bystander, standing on the side lines of combatting colleagues? Is there anything you can do to support your colleagues and help them resolve their issues before it all goes too far?
If you find yourself in the role of an ‘accidental mediator’, it’s useful to understand why clashes occur. In the workplace, it’s often down to three broad issues: cultural differences, personality clashes and differing work styles.
Our society is painted with a vast and vivid array of colours: the picture is bright with intersecting cultures, beliefs and values. It’s what makes us both individual and collective. But when the strokes clash and the colours are muddled, the painting loses its original meaning. In the modern workplace, people are increasingly vocal about everything from social justice to environmental issues and are not afraid to voice quite firmly held views. One member of staff may be “anti-vax” for example, while another is staunchly “pro-vaccination”. Or colleagues may be split over the environmental implications of the work they are doing and what the right course of action for the company should be. It doesn’t take much for healthy debate to descend into a dysfunctional dispute which interferes with people’s ability to work collaboratively.
Workplaces are made up of many people and the personalities that come with them. If a new manager comes on the scene and tries to keep a tighter rein on a team that has been used to working independently, bad feeling will inevitably arise, and people can soon become disengaged and dissatisfied within their role. If an employee who is strong on the detail must work with a colleague who has a ‘bigger picture’ approach, both parties can easily become frustrated with each other and can fall out over how best to approach the task in hand.
Companies have been catapulted into working from home and then hybrid working thanks to COVID-19. But as the pandemic abates, these new ways of working can lead to complex disputes. Feelings of unfairness or favouritism can quickly arise if employees feel there is inconsistency over working arrangements and more flexibility for some than others. There can be a perception that those who are more ‘visible’ in the physical office space are more likely to get the plum projects. Even in a previously happy and peaceful team, the cracks can soon start to appear.
Don’t ignore the conflict and assume that it will fade into the background of clattering keyboards. It’s important to recognise the difficulties present and ask the parties if they would like to resolve it.
Encourage open, honest and non-judgmental dialogue from each party. Embolden people to really listen to each other and try and understand the other party’s perspective.
Now that everyone’s said their piece, all parties can look ahead. Individuals need to focus on the future, not the past, and work on practical, realistic and pragmatic solutions. This is where it can shift from animosity to amicability – and a productive working relationship going forward.
Sometimes the hardest part is keeping the peace. The conflict may be mostly over, but it’s possible for feelings to return to the fore in challenging moments. If this happens, go back to the beginning: acknowledge. If necessary, you can repeat the steps you followed before and let them talk it out. Frustrations should ease and the conflict will de-escalate, through your accidental supervision.
Once all is said and done, make sure to check in. This can be over hours, days, weeks and even months. Offer your support and solace in times of need – you’ll be surprised how much of a difference even a five-minute conversation can have.
Workplace conflict will affect at least one third of us each year, according to CIPD reports. As the pressures of Covid-19 see no signs of stopping, this statistic is expected to rise. If you find yourself in between sides, without formal mediation training, be sure to apply these principles and practical steps to restore harmony in the workplace. In short, it’s simple: be kind to those around you and don’t be afraid to offer a helping hand.
July
10jul17:3023:00Rising Star Awards Ceremony 2025
10/07/2025 17:30 - 23:00(GMT+00:00)
The Londoner Hotel
38 Leicester Square, London, WC2H 7DX
Now in their eleventh year, the Rising Star Awards continue
Now in their eleventh year, the Rising Star Awards continue to be the first to spotlight the achievements of women below the Senior Management or Director level – showcasing the female talent pipeline and the next generation of future leaders.
The awards also recognise the efforts of senior leaders who champion gender equality and put the spotlight on a “company of the year” that actively supports its female talent pipeline above and beyond industry norms.
The team at WeAreTheCity are excited to announce that we will be holding our Rising Star awards celebration for all winners, sponsors and judges on the evening of 10 July at The Londoner, Leicester Square.
Over the course of the evening we will be networking and celebrating the achievements of all of our 2025 winners, whilst enjoying the very best in entertainment from our live singers and strictly stars. An evening not to be missed!
For more information visit: wearethecity-risingstars.com
26julAll DayTessy's Brunches Presents: Engage HER
26/07/2025 All Day(GMT+00:00)
Stanley Stephenson Lounge
Crystal Palace Football Club, Holmesdale Road, London, SE25 6PU
Engage Her – July 26, 2025 Event Summary: Engage Her is a dynamic event focused on fostering meaningful connections and building a supportive
Event Summary: Engage Her is a dynamic event focused on fostering meaningful connections and building a supportive community of women. Through interactive workshops, networking opportunities, and engaging discussions, attendees will have the chance to share experiences, learn from one another, and grow together. This event aims to create a welcoming environment where women can support each other in their personal and professional journeys.
Highlights:
• Engaging workshops and interactive sessions encouraging active participation.
• Networking opportunities to expand personal and professional connections.
• Panel discussions with industry leaders sharing insights and experiences.
• Community-building activities to foster lasting relationships.
Mark your calendars for Engage Her on July 26, 2025, a vibrant event designed to connect and inspire women. Participate in interactive workshops, network with like-minded individuals, and join discussions with industry leaders. Build meaningful relationships and grow within a supportive community. Engage Her is your opportunity to connect, learn, and thrive together. Don’t miss out—register now!
Indulge in a sumptuous spread of delicious treats crafted to tantalize your taste buds.
Tickets are available for £50 and the event is open to all women. Let’s come together and support each other as we navigate the challenges of life. We can’t wait to see you there!
Tessy’s Brunches (www.tessysbrunches) is dedicated to creating a platform where unseen women become visible through networking and mentoring opportunities. Our mission is not only about recognising women but understanding and addressing their unique challenges.
Our aims are rooted in three core principles: Empower, Engage, and Elevate. We seek to empower women by inspiring personal growth and self-discovery. We aim to engage by fostering meaningful connections and building a supportive community. Finally, we strive to elevate by enhancing professional development and personal fulfilment. Through these pillars, we are dedicated to helping women overcome barriers, realize their potential, and achieve both personal and professional success.
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