What to Do When Your Views Differ From Co-Workers

It is not likely that you agree with all of the decisions or opinions expressed in the workplace. Co-worker relationships often develop through conversations that reveal values, beliefs, goals and strategies. Workplace conflict can occur when employees with differing opinions do not handle the situation calmly and professionally. You can have a peaceful co-existence with individuals with differing views, which can enhance the company culture and foster acceptance among co-workers.

Conversations in the workplace can get heated when individuals are unwilling to listen or recognize that people have differing views. Enhance co-worker relationships by taking a step back when you find yourself anxious, angry or annoyed by someone else's opinions. Observe the interaction as an outsider to evaluate the conversation. Many people become defensive and take comments personally when they are discussing a topic that they feel strongly about, such as politics, religion or the welfare of society. Step back for a minute to assess the situation. You may perceive the conversation as offensive or even intimidating, but in most situations, people are expressing their thoughts just as passionately as you are.

A conversation that becomes hostile or defensive is not productive when developing and maintaining co-worker relationships. Thwart heated debates by stating that it might be best simply to agree to disagree. Validate the viewpoints of your associates and express that you understand, but that you also do not feel the need to agree. Stop hostile debates before anger and agitation consume colleagues, and work to keep a pleasant tone and positive body language when interacting with people you disagree with to avoid workplace conflict. A conversation that includes mutual respect is ideal for fostering co-worker relationships.

Consider the impropriety of discussions surrounding controversial topics in the workplace. Clients and customers within earshot may develop a negative perception of your business when co-worker relationships reveal harsh tones or loud debates. The professional persona of the business is just as important as preserving cohesive teams. Defer the conversation to an after-work get together or cease the discussion completely when disagreeing with opposing viewpoints to keep the peace. Set the example for others in the office environment by remaining professional when you are communicating with others. It might be necessary to establish some ground rules or a strategy to accept differing viewpoints and avoid future disagreements in the workplace. This can help eliminate the risk of losing focus, which ultimately affects the company as a whole.

A diverse workplace often enhances the productivity as team members rely on the strengths of one another. Diverse thinking and opposing viewpoints can throw the cohesiveness of the group off track. Preserve co-worker relationships by working toward a decision fairly and calmly, relying on mutual respect and professionalism.

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