Top 6 Tips on Dealing with Workplace Conflict in Conferences & Events

Dealing with Workplace Conflict 

By Lilly Croucher

 

Events is notoriously a high-pressure industry, and with lots of different people and continuous projects being worked on, conflict in the job is expected.

Almost 40% of workers will experience workplace conflict at some point in their career, so it’s important to be aware of the different types of conflict and how to resolve it effectively.

 

1. Creative Idea Conflict 

You’ve researched the best conference topics and guest speakers for an event when your colleague dismisses your idea in favour of their own.

Creative disagreements are common in fields like events and marketing, but it’s important to remember that everyone has the right to their opinion. Working through disagreements by talking to those who are dismissive and trying to get their feedback on your idea can help improve it.

 

2. Leadership Conflict 

Every manager is different. Leaders with different backgrounds will have different priorities and goals for their team, which can cause tension if members of the team don’t fit into their way of working

It’s important to have empathy and respect for your manager, even if you disagree with their approach. Leaders should also be aware of their style and adjust to different personalities. Communicate your differences with your manager to see if you can come to a solution.

 

3. Work Style Conflict

Different workers have different work styles, so it’s important to be aware of this and be willing to work with your colleagues in a way that works for both of you. You may like working on research in a team at the office whilst someone else may prefer to work independently at home.

By recognising your differences and being open and flexible, you will help your team perform more efficiently. You could agree to hybrid working patterns or to have a catch-up meeting every day to update the projects’ progress.

 

4. Organisation Conflict 

When working in a team, it’s possible for tasks to get out of sync, leading to disputes. This can happen when one member of the team is unable to coordinate their tasks with others, or when deadlines are not met such as liaising with speakers or filing copy.

To avoid this, it’s important to delegate tasks effectively, playing to your colleagues’ strengths and communicate with team members to keep them informed. Additionally, it’s important to understand the importance of ownership and responsibility, and to make sure that everyone on the team is aware of their role.

 

5. Personality Conflict

Differences in personal beliefs and backgrounds can be difficult to work together, but if both parties are willing, a productive business relationship can be formed. Recognise that not everyone is going to be your cup of tea, meaning you’re not going to like everyone you meet at work and vice versa.

To avoid clashing with people, have respect for all your colleagues and know this works both ways. Talk to the person to try and find some common ground but if it is impacting your work, discuss it with your manager.

 

6. Discrimination or bullying

Being rude or gossiping about colleagues is always going to create conflict, but if this behaviour becomes bullying or discriminatory based on sex, gender, race, sexuality, or disability, then talk to your manager immediately. If you cannot talk with a manager, talk to someone you trust.

Conflict over business and tasks will happen but no one should ever be targeted in a workplace and management should seek to resolve the matter quickly and professionally.

 

The main take away: communication is key in resolving conflicts and making everyone feel welcome. Talking with your colleagues, team, or management can open the conversation and will help everyone to come to a resolution.

 

Looking for your next Conference of event job?

 Jackson Barnes Recruitment delivers international recruitment solutions within the events, media and publishing sectors.

Working with commercial and not-for-profit organisations and institutions. Jackson Barnes place from entry level up to MD in the following positions:

• Researchers
• Conference producers
• Event Marketing professionals
• Sales professionals – delegate, sponsorship and Business Development
• Event Managers
• Editors
We recruit for organisations in UK and overseas with success in London, Dubai, New York, Singapore and Australia.

 You can also follow us on LinkedIn – https://lnkd.in/ehBMTFE