Managing Conflict

Conflict in the workplace is unpleasant and stressful for everyone on the farm. If not dealt with quickly and effectively, it can undermine staff motivation, reduce on-farm productivity and even affect your reputation as a good employer.

Ignoring conflict, hoping it will disappear with time, is extremely destructive because it creates tension, stress and ill-feeling. Often conflict that is not addressed will fester until a crisis point is reached. This is often too late and may result in the loss of a key employee, or manifest in unpleasant counterproductive behaviours.

The first thing to do when a conflict develops is to treat it seriously. Listen to the complaint and try to identify the key points. It may help to repeat these back to those complaining, in order to ensure that you have understood them correctly.

If another person or group is involved, talk to them as soon as possible. Be objective (i.e. don't pre-judge the issue) and try to get their side of the story.

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