Many of us were taught through behaviors modeled - perhaps by our parents, family members, bosses, and/or leaders - that being agreeable is important – especially at work. Get along with your colleagues.
Be friendly.
Collaborate.
Don’t shut ideas down.
Don’t disagree with someone above your pay grade. Try not to be the “squeaky wheel”.
Which means we’re essentially taught that it’s better to ignore a problem and let resentment build than address it directly and be seen as impolite and, therefore, unprofessional. (Cue emphatic sigh.)
Luckily, things are changing. We’ve all (hopefully) seen it - if not in our own workplaces, then in case studies of companies who are, slowly but surely, getting it right when it comes to culture. Companies are finally prioritizing intentional inclusivity: talent with diverse backgrounds, unique life experiences, and (gasp!) conflicting opinions actually make the workplace stronger, sharper, and more capable of adapting to change.
Still believe you can get by by avoiding conflict at work? Read on.
Here are 3 ways that addressing conflict in a direct, healthy way can improve your work environment. Download and learn more.
