Navigating conflict is difficult in the workplace. The stakes can sometimes be very high; you might worry that you will lose your job, or that the environment could become toxic and your relationships with your colleagues will be damaged. As such, many people avoid talking about the problems they have with their employers.
However, this means that nothing will ever change. The situation might even worsen. So, it’s important to be proactive and tackle the issue upfront. But how does one go about doing this? Well, that’s what we’ll be discussing today. Read on to find out what you should do when you have a problem with your employer.
Confer with Others
Before anything, you should discuss your problem with other people. They will provide some valuable insight as outsiders to the situation, which may help you to understand the situation better.
For example, is the issue truly your manager’s fault? Or is there something you could (or should) be doing to mitigate the issue? Are other things happening in your life that mean you’re projecting stress into your work? After a little bit of self-reflection, you can then determine whether the issue is with yourself or the manager.
Speak with friends and family members whom you know you can trust, rather than other co-workers. Office gossip can exacerbate a situation, so aim to remain professional, even when your emotions are involved.
Discuss the Situation with Your Manager
Now you feel certain that the problem doesn’t just lie with you, it’s time to discuss things with your manager. Before doing so, it can be helpful to write out a list of topics you would like to talk about. This means you can ensure no details will be missed, and that the conversation can remain productive.
Don’t attack the other person, though, because this isn’t conducive to repairing strained workplace relationships. Most managers will be receptive to a constructive discussion and present solutions to the issues you have raised. They want everything to be resolved as much as you do.
Speak to the Union
Most industries will have an employment union that workers can go to with their troubles, particularly if they feel they are being exploited or discriminated against. If things go badly when speaking with your manager, then now might be the time to speak to your union. They can provide you with the resources and support you need to overcome issues.
Talk to Employment Solicitors
Sometimes, people feel like going to their union isn’t enough to change things in their workplace. Rather than treating the symptoms of the problem, they’d prefer to go straight to the cause i.e. the dysfunctional employer. If you have reached this point with your manager, then it’s worth speaking to employment solicitors like www.springhouselaw.com. They will deliver professional advice to resolve the issue.
Employment solicitors are especially helpful when it comes to navigating legal conflict. They will talk to you about your rights and when you should take things to the court. This is a lifeline for people who have been wrongfully dismissed because of a workplace conflict.
These are the main steps you need to take when resolving a problem with your employer. We hope you have found this advice helpful.
