CONFLICT MANAGEMENT
(Adapted from Malaspina University-College Office of Human Rights, http://www.mala.ca/humanrights/)
Conflict is inevitable when people work together and it is an essential dynamic in the growth and development of effective organizations. It is not necessarily a negative experience if it is managed appropriately and not left unresolved. Conflict may be required to surface issues which interfere with effective operations and result in strained relationships. Discussing these issues openly and respectfully can often lead to real improvements both in the workplace operations and in working relationships.
This website has been designed to provide information and tools for both employees and managers who are responsible to manage conflict on a daily basis.
- University Resources
- Your Manager, Chair/Director, Dean
- Office of Human Rights, Equity and Harassment Prevention
- Human Resources
- Your Union or Association
- Employee and Family Assistance Program
1. University Resources
While employees are encouraged to manage any conflict with co-workers in a productive way it is recognized that some conflicts can be difficult to resolve on your own.
Dalhousie University has resources available for employees seeking assistance in managing conflict. It is your choice where you seek assistance, based on your own assessment of your needs, and which person or service you would feel most comfortable approaching.
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2. Your Manager, Chair/Director, Dean
Managers have responsibility for addressing workplace problems in the area(s) they supervise and for ensuring that out-of-control conflict is not occurring in the workplace. They may be able to arrange a meeting to discuss the issue, clarify workplace expectations, take steps to solve systemic issues impacting the working relationships, or support you in gaining skills in conflict management. If inappropriate behaviour is occurring in the workplace s/he can take steps to prevent future problems.
Arrange a private meeting with the appropriate supervisor or administrator to discuss the problem and to request his/her assistance in finding a solution.
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3. Office of Human Rights, Equity and Harassment Prevention
The Advisors are available to assist you in managing workplace conflict. The Advisors are available to:
Provide support in understanding the conflict and possible avenues for resolution
Act as a neutral third party to assist in the resolution of an issue and to build a better working relationship
To arrange a private meeting call 494-6672 or email Bonnie.Best-Fleming@dal.ca or Gaye.wishart@dal.ca (494-1137).
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4. Human Resources
These offices can provide confidential assistance to employees with concerns related to workplace conflict.
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5. Your Union or Association
Your union representative can assist you in determining what approach you wish to take in addressing your concern. The discussion is confidential and meant to assist you in developing a plan of action, whether it involves assistance from your union or not. Make contact with your Chief Steward or Association President. He or she can get you in touch with the right person to assist.
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6. Employee and Family Assistance Program
The Employee and Family Assistance Program offers employees and their dependents a range of services to assist with personal or work-related issues. These may include marital or family matters; alcohol or drug problems and other addictions; emotional, vocational, career-related, financial, legal or other issues. Services are delivered by professional counselors partnered with Medavie Blue Cross. As such, the EFAP is part of our group benefits plan. Confidentiality and privacy are assured, within the limits of the law, to each employee and family member who uses inConfidence.
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