Workplace conflicts can happen at every level of every organization. Whether professionals are executives or customer service representatives, whether they work at a Fortune 500 company or a small business, conflicts arise occasionally. These conflicts can be positive, if they are managed properly. In fact, HR Drive notes that a recent study found nearly 80% of employees reported conflicts leading to positive results. Human resource management (HRM) plays a key role in workplace conflict resolution, balancing the needs of individual employees with the best interests of the organization.
Human resource management is defined as “creating personnel policies and procedures that support business objectives and strategic plans … [and] fostering a culture that reflects core values and empowers employees to be as productive as possible.” Empowering an employee’s productivity includes managing interpersonal tensions before they develop into full-fledged conflicts.
Effective HRM requires leaders to use the appropriate skills. Those looking to step into leadership roles where they can shape the workplace environment and effectively manage interpersonal conflict should consider the Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a concentration in Human Resource Management online program from William Paterson University. The program prepares graduates to address these workplace challenges head-on.
What Is Human Resource Management?
HRM involves more than just hiring and firing. According to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), HR managers ensure the workforce is aligned with company goals. This involves managing interpersonal issues that arise between employees. Workplace conflicts can easily spin out of control and erode organizational culture if not addressed head-on, which is why conflict management is such a key element of the HR professional’s role.
Workplace conflict resolution involves addressing what is causing the dispute, whether that boils down to communication problems, differences in values or organizational stress. William Paterson University’s online program courses, such as Crisis Management for Organizations, prepare graduates to navigate complex workplace disputes and ensure they are resolved to benefit the employees and the organization.
How to Resolve Conflict in the Workplace
It’s important for HR professionals to know when to step in and when to leave employees to sort through these challenges on their own. However, when they step in, it’s just as vital for them to know how to do so effectively. HR professionals can mitigate conflicts by doing the following:
- Establish clear communication channels: A Forbes article indicates that it’s important to prevent misunderstandings by encouraging honest and open communication between employees. This includes creating a work environment where employees feel safe to express their concerns and make mistakes without fear of being disciplined or losing their jobs. This is called psychological safety.
- Listen to all sides: There are (at least) two sides to every story. Forbes explains that taking the time to hear all parties involved in a conflict ensures decisions are fair, and all employees feel valued. HR Drive cites that conflicts often arise when employees feel unheard, making it essential to have a neutral third party like HR present.
- Focus on the problem, not the people: HR should guide employees to focus on the problem, ideally meeting with each party separately to fully understand the challenge they are facing. It’s best when employees collaborate to develop with their own solutions; teaching them conflict resolution is something they’re capable of on their own, according to Forbes.
- Stay focused: Engaging in conflict rarely brings out the best in a person. When emotions run high, conversations can quickly spiral, with multiple issues being brought simultaneously. To avoid this, HR professionals should focus on one topic at a time, the Forbes article emphasizes. Resolve each issue before moving on and be sure to follow up afterward.
What Does HRM Mean for Career Growth?
The job outlook for HR professionals is strong, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting about 17,400 job openings annually from 2023 through 2032. Every industry needs HR professionals, and companies recognize the value of skilled HR managers who can maintain a positive work environment. The increase in remote work and teams made up of people from around the world have introduced new challenges that HR professionals now face regarding conflict resolution. This makes specialized training even more valuable.
What Is an MBA in HRM?
An MBA in Human Resource Management is not just about managing payroll and benefits. This focused education equips learners with the skills to manage workplace dynamics, prevent conflicts and build a healthy work environment. William Paterson University’s Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Human Resource Management online helps HR professionals navigate these challenges. By investing in this advanced education, graduates of the program are well prepared to lead HR departments and resolve conflicts, setting the stage for a successful career as an HRM leader.
Learn more about William Paterson University’s online MBA with a concentration in HRM program.
