It is not surprising that there would be times when conflict is built into the very fabric of your organization. If not dealt with right away, conflicts can create severed relationships and could suck out the time, energy, and productivity of even the best employees.

In order the deal with this, managers should deal with it on a positive light. Conflict can also be a catalyst that sets the stage for needed changes. Although there is no such this as dealing with conflicts perfectly, but there are ways that you can utilize in solving conflicts.

Talk to the people involved. Deal with the conflict directly instead of talking about it. It may be uncomfortable or disappointing at first, but it would cut down on mind-reading and the hostility that can occur if not dealt directly.

Solve the problem immediately. Evading from conflict would not erased the problem at all. It would instead create guilt of not being able to deal with them in the first place. Turning away from conflict would only sap energy and time from you, as well as affecting morale. Deal with the problem as soon as it appears.

Follow through the solution. Develop communication that focuses on solving problems that would brew right after dealing with a previous conflict. Do not be stuck in proving a conviction for past mistakes. Remember that problems should be dealt with results, not enemies seeking revenge.

Deal problems according to issues. Be assertive to your solution, but at the same time affirm the rights of others to have different opinions, values, and priorities. Do not take disagreements personal and attack back, as it would only make conflicts worse. Focus on mutual problem-solving, not name-calling.

Accept criticism, but be resistant. There will come a point that you would push for certain changes in your company, and not all of the people would agree. Do not attempt to threaten, silence, or avoid criticisms of change. It would only increase the likeliness that even the most necessary of changes would become sabotaged. By being resistant, your company build clarity of focus and action. If criticism continues even after dealing with the problem, then it’s probably time to reflect on what you may have done wrong.

Treat your people equally. It is best not to put labels on your employees, such as “too nice,” or “scene maker,” or those based on race, gender, and religion. It would only give you excuses for not confronting the problem. Be caring to all of your people, enough to be firm, fair, and consistent.

Avoid forming hostile relationships. If a relationship between employees is limited to polite indifference and significant negative interaction, expect polarization and an “enemy” relationship. This kind of relationship does not have any winner. Even your most difficult employee would have someone whom they work well with, make sure one of them is you. Learn to look for the best even in the most negative people.

Invest your time building positive relationships towards difficult people. Look for ways to be sincere. It takes numerous times of positive contact to build trust. Give specific recognition and ask for assistance in the areas you respect their opinions. Be a positive bridge builder, creating a reputation all will see and come to respect even if a few people never respond.

Check your own personality. If you feel like you are surrounded by jerks and try to correct their wrongs, chances are you may be the jerk. Influencing others starts by making sure that you are not being difficult yourself.