Conflict In The Workplace – Have you ever witnessed it, been part of it, or tried to manage others through it? We’re guessing you said yes to all 3!

If you do a google search on “unhealthy conflict in the workplace” impacts are huge. Here’s the recap:

Financial & Productivity Costs

• Massive Losses: Conflict costs U.S. companies over $350 billion annually in lost productivity, absenteeism, and turnover.

• Lost Time: Employees spend significant hours (around 2-2.8 hours/week) dealing with conflict, equivalent to millions in lost wages.

• Lower Output: Distracted employees, reduced focus, and errors from stress directly decrease output.
  
  

Employee Well-being & Morale

• Health Issues: Conflict triggers stress, burnout, anxiety, and depression, leading to increased sick leave and higher healthcare costs.

• Presenteeism: Being at work but not functioning due to conflict stress costs more than absenteeism.

• Damaged Morale: Lowers team spirit, trust, job satisfaction, and willingness to collaborate, hindering creativity.

When strong workplace relationships exist, there’s a greater likelihood of conflict (or simply differing opinions) being addressed in a healthy manner. Listening is key!

Differences don’t need to be destructive and it’s essential that we recognize and navigate alternative views with respect and an open mindset.

Don’t ignore or allow the conflicts in your workplace to impact you financially or lessen productivity; rather, use them to inspire creativity, build stronger relationships, and enhance collaboration.