What are the types of conflict in the workplace?
Exploring the types of conflict in the workplace is crucial to preventing and managing difficult situations at work. From identifying real conflicts to those generated with intentionality, understanding their origin can help create an effective conflict map, allowing us to better prepare for possible solutions. Let's explore the different types of conflicts.
What are real, perceived and generated conflicts?
When analyzing conflicts in the workplace, it is vital to differentiate between:
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Real conflicts: these arise from genuine disagreements due to various organizational causes. Frequent examples include differences of opinion on procedures or competition for limited resources.
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Assumed conflicts: these can arise from misunderstandings or misperceptions, where the parties involved believe that a conflict exists without there actually being a significant or factual disagreement.
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Generated conflicts: this includes the intentional creation of conflict, which can occur when a boss seeks to end the relationship with an employee, generating tense situations continuously until the relationship wears down.
How do personal and intrapersonal conflicts influence work?
Personal and intrapersonal conflicts should not be underestimated, as they have a significant impact on the work environment.
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Personal conflicts: these come from the private sphere of individuals, but influence work relationships. These may include family or mental health problems that undermine collaboration and effectiveness at work.
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Intrapersonal conflicts: these arise within an individual, often related to inconsistencies between the individual's personal beliefs and the company's actions or policies. These are common between managers and employees or between colleagues with personality or values mismatches.
What are cultural and procedural conflicts?
Often underestimated, cultural and procedural conflicts can severely hinder effective work performance.
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Cultural conflicts arise in times of organizational change or growth when attempts are made to change entrenched ways of working. Resistance to change can be intense, manifesting itself in sayings such as "this is the way it has always been done here".
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Procedural conflicts: occur when there is no clear documentation of procedures or lack of adequate training, especially for new employees. Inconsistency in work methods can cause frustrations and decrease operational efficiency.
Why is it crucial to manage communication conflicts?
Communication plays a central role in labor relations, and communication conflicts are common but preventable.
- Communication conflicts: communication style, lack of active listening, or differences in the way people relate to each other can be sources of conflict. It is essential to promote effective interpersonal skills, facilitating an environment where differences are understood and resolved constructively.
Fostering a culture of open and honest communication, in addition to training in active listening skills, can not only mitigate conflict, but also strengthen work teams.
Identifying and understanding the root cause of these conflicts not only helps manage them more effectively, but also creates a more productive and harmonious environment. Reflect on what conflicts you perceive in your current work environment, and consider which ones need to be resolved immediately. There are always opportunities to learn and improve. Are you encouraged to share your experience?
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