Workplace conflict resolution is about finding constructive ways to address disagreement, tension or communication difficulties at work.

Conflict can arise for many reasons. It may involve a disagreement between colleagues, difficulties with a manager, a breakdown in communication or an ongoing working relationship that has become increasingly difficult.

Resolving conflict does not necessarily mean that everyone will agree.

It can mean understanding the issues more clearly, improving communication, establishing boundaries, addressing concerns or finding practical ways for people to work together more effectively.

When Might You Need Support?
You may benefit from independent workplace support if you are experiencing:

• Ongoing disagreement with a colleague or manager

• Communication difficulties

• A breakdown in a working relationship

• Workplace tension or repeated misunderstandings

• Difficult conversations that you are struggling to have

• Conflict that is affecting your ability to work

• Concerns about how a situation is developing

• Uncertainty about whether to raise an issue formally

• A situation where you simply don't know what to do next

 

You do not need to wait until a workplace problem becomes a formal dispute before seeking support. Addressing difficulties early can sometimes make it easier to understand the situation and consider constructive options.

How Can Work Resolve Help?
The first step is to understand your circumstances.

Work Resolve provides a confidential opportunity to talk through what is happening and consider the options available to you.

Depending on the situation, this may include exploring:

• Communication
  How you can approach a difficult conversation or improve communication with someone at work.

• Informal Resolution
  Whether there may be a practical way to address the issue before it becomes a formal workplace dispute.

• Mediation
  Whether a structured mediation process could help people involved in a workplace disagreement communicate and explore a way forward.

• Workplace Procedures
  Whether you may need to consider an internal process such as raising a grievance, responding to a disciplinary matter or making a formal request.

 

Next Steps

What you might reasonably consider doing next, based on your circumstances and what you want to achieve.

The purpose is not to tell you what you must do. It is to help you understand your situation so you can make an informed decision about your next step.

An Independent Perspective When You Need One
It can be difficult to think clearly when you are directly involved in a workplace conflict.

You may be worried about making the situation worse, unsure whether your concerns are justified or simply uncertain about how to approach the person involved.

Having someone independent to talk to can help you step back from the situation and look at it more objectively.

Work Resolve provides a calm, practical space to talk things through without being part of your workplace.

Supporting Employees and Employers
Workplace conflict can be difficult for everyone involved.

For employees, Work Resolve can provide an independent perspective when you are unsure how to approach a difficult workplace situation.

For employers, independent support may help when communication or working relationships have become difficult and a constructive way forward needs to be considered.

The focus is on understanding the situation, addressing difficulties where possible and finding practical ways forward.

Conflict Resolution Does Not Always Mean Formal Action
Not every workplace disagreement needs a grievance, disciplinary process or other formal procedure.
Sometimes the most appropriate first step is simply to understand what is happening and consider whether the situation can be addressed informally.

Work Resolve can help you explore the options before you decide whether formal action is appropriate.
Equally, if a situation has already become formal, independent support can help you understand the process and consider your next steps.

A Practical Approach to Workplace Conflict
Work Resolve takes a practical and people-focused approach.

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The starting point is always to listen and understand the circumstances rather than making assumptions about who is right or wrong.

From there, the focus is on exploring realistic options and helping you consider what may be appropriate for your situation.

Listen. Understand. Explore. Resolve.
 

What Work Resolve Doesn't Provide
Work Resolve provides independent workplace support and guidance.

It does not provide legal advice or legal representation and does not act as your employer's HR department.

Where a situation requires specialist legal advice, you may be advised to seek advice from an appropriately qualified legal professional.

Could We Help With Your Situation?
You don't need to know exactly what you need before you make contact.

An initial consultation gives you the opportunity to explain what is happening, talk through your concerns and explore what options may be available.

A 45-minute confidential consultation to talk through your workplace situation and consider your options.
There is no obligation to continue with Work Resolve after the initial consultation.