Preventing Conflict in the Workplace: Managing Back to Office Woes

small business hr services canada

There’s no denying that the last 2 years have been full of challenges for the workforce, with employees and leadership facing constantly changing rules, guidelines and circumstances on an almost daily basis. With some companies and organizations across Calgary and Edmonton, as well as the rest of Alberta beginning the slow progress of reintegrating into office life after working from home, it’s inevitable that things may be a little tense and less “friendly” than we’re used to.

Managing workplace conflict effectively is a valuable skill for any leadership team, but during times of heightened stress and emotions, it becomes even more vital to have a solid plan in place to navigate rocky waters and guide your team back to harmony safely. At Pivot HR, we’re proud to partner with businesses and organizations across Canada to offer HR support for a wide range of matters, including conflict management and workplace investigations in the case of serious concerns or cultural issues. We know that these difficult times can certainly put a heavy amount of strain on your team and lead to discontent in the office. If you’re facing some developing issues as you return to the office below are a few core tips and practices to keep in mind while getting everyone settled back in.

Self-Awareness and Emotional Intelligence

One of the biggest positive attributes your leadership team can have when it comes to navigating difficult periods is self-awareness and emotional intelligence. Knowing how you’re feeling, how that’s influencing your behaviour, as well as how your employees are doing is a huge asset that can help you defuse conflict before it has a chance to set in. Be aware that everyone is likely experiencing far more heightened emotions than usual right now, and that your leadership team will need to demonstrate patience, empathy and compassion to get your team realigned. Plan ahead, give everyone a chance to breathe and let them know you understand where they’re coming from.

Communicate

Communication is key when it comes to diffusing workplace conflict in general. So often, we misinterpret intentions or words (especially over digital correspondence), leading to a disconnect that can cause problems if we don’t choose to confront the issue head-on. By simply maintaining healthy, respectful, and open communication with one another, your team can avoid the majority of most minor conflicts and grow together instead!

Snuff out Negativity

During times of stress, it’s easy to unwittingly open the door for negativity and let it take root within your business or organization. As one of the most toxic and damaging influences on any workplace culture, negativity is one of the fastest ways to break team morale and lose what you’ve worked so hard to build. Don’t hesitate to (respectfully) call out negative influences and set a standard of positivity in your office culture; your team, and your mental well-being, will thank you!

Don’t Let Things Fester

It can be easy to write off “small” matters as insignificant at the time, but the truth is, where there’s smoke, fire usually follows. Don’t sweep disagreements or confrontations under the rug, and make sure your employees know you’re willing to act as needed.

Take Complaints Seriously

Finally, taking action on complaints isn’t just necessary for company culture, it’s a must when it comes to workplace compliance. If you’re facing serious accusations from your team that involve verbal abuse, sexual harassment, or assault, you are obligated as an employer to conduct a thorough workplace investigation. Partnering with an external HR partner like Pivot HR makes this process simple, fair, and as pain-free as possible. With Pivot HR on your side, you can have peace of mind in knowing that we always have the best interests of your team, the individuals in question, and all relevant regulations at the core of what we do.

Come Back to Office Confidently

Wondering how you can set the ground for success for a successful WFH to office transition? Contact Pivot HR to learn more about our HR support services including conflict management and workplace investigations today!

What Our Clients say about us

“Robin and Mia were both exceptionally professional and responsive and understood our needs. Their work was of great quality. We are a small non-profit organization and we found them very easy and wonderful to work with. Great value and highly recommend.”

~ Joy Masuhara , Co-Chair Women Transforming Cities International Society

“Cindy is a remarkable professional coach, who goes well beyond expectations in supporting her clients’ development. She knows how to ask the right questions and uncover the real and deep issues that contribute to the limitations we put on ourselves. This type of personal exploration is tough work to do alone and remain committed to necessary change. Cindy’s approach and support made this process one of the most impactful experiences of my life, professionally and personally.”

~ Monique Cotton, Firm Administrator, JFK Law Corporation

“As a medium size business with over 100 employees working in very different areas of our operation, Pivot was able to quickly understand our HR needs and offer practical solutions. Robin and the Pivot team worked closely with our Leadership group to implement effective turnkey solutions on time and on budget. We will continue to use Pivot for our ongoing HR needs and would highly recommend their services.”

~ Adam Zubek, General Manager, Point Grey Golf & Country Club

Pivot HR Services provides personalized solutions for our organization’s human resources needs. By engaging their services, we have been able to successfully outsource our HR function, as the Pivot team has demonstrated their ability to understand the HR priorities of our workplace culture and industry.

~ Areef Abraham, Chief Executive Officer Community Power

“Robin developed our employee policy manual with the goal of engaging and retaining our current staff as well as attracting new ones in this highly competitive marketplace. Her in depth knowledge of current legislation and HR policies proved to be of significant benefit. I would highly recommend Robin and the team at Pivot HR Services.”

~ Christopher Soles, President, Nextgen Technologies Ltd.

“Robin has been and continues to be an outstanding resource for our organization to navigate HR issues as we grow. She always approaches problems with professionalism and a keen eye for our best interest. I’d certainly recommend Robin to anyone looking to elevate their HR processes.”

~ Karim Abraham, CEO, Kambo Energy Solutions

“Our firm turned to Robin for advice and guidance at a time when we faced a period of serious difficulty in managing our human resources. She assisted us through the process of putting our relationship with our staff on a stronger, more stable footing and helped us implement a complete overhaul of our human resources policies. We could not be more pleased with the work she has done and continues to do with us.”

~ Robert Janes, QC, Managing Principal JFK Law Corporation

Read more testimonials