Mediation Monday: How To Handle Conflict with Your Boss
Sometimes a work relationship is not healthy. Studies have shown in fact, that employees often leave a workplace due to the manager, not the job itself. If you find yourself dealing with a boss who is angry with you, here are six steps to take to handle the situation:
1) Remain Calm
Channel your Zen and do not get aggravated yourself. “As the yelling is taking place, take deep, slow breaths. If it helps, imagine your happy place, whether it’s the beach or the mountains or your own back porch. Tell yourself, “This too shall pass,” realizing that in a matter of minutes, the yeller will probably stomp off in a fury and you’ll be able to regain the space you need to gradually get things back to normal.” (entreprenuer.com)
2) Do not match tone
Often in a conversation, a natural reaction is to match the tone of the person you are speaking with. However, in a heated conversation, this can actually aggravate the situation. “Speak in a low, calm, measured tone and you’ll likely find that the other person feels naturally inclined to match you.” (entreprenuer.com)
3) See their Perspective
As with every conflict, there are two sides to every story. Though you may not originally see it, it is possible some of the blame rests on you. Reflect on your behavior and their complaints. Acknowledge the issue in the hopes of finding a solution
4) Weigh your Options
“This isn’t the only employer in town. With so many businesses striving to offer a positive work culture, you should be able to find an employer who knows the negative effects yelling can bring. If yelling is a rare occurrence, only you can decide whether it’s worth a job change.” (entreprenuer.com)
5) Show you’re Listening
Practice active listening…nod, reformulate and ask open ended questions. This allows you to understand the issue at hand as well as show the speaker that your respect their thoughts. Active listening is a major skill needed for crisis management, in fact.
6) Know when to go to HR or a mediator
A second opinion can help ensure that the needed conversations occur in a open and positive manner. A third party can help resolve unsolved issues.
Check out how our mediation services can help.
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