Mindful Communication Reduces Workplace Conflict by Focusing on Team Values
Values and Unmet Expectations
Often when there is conflict in the workplace we can draw a line back to a breakdown in communication somewhere along the way. And typically, it is because one party feels that another did not meet an expectation. This expectation may have been clearly defined, but more often than not, this expectation was implied or created mentally without clearly having been articulated to each other. How can we address unmet expectations and use mindful communication to reduce workplace conflict?
Let’s start at the root of why people get upset when expectations are unmet? Expectations are usually determined by attributes that we as a person value most. Some examples of values could be; punctuality, honesty, loyalty, thoroughness, dependability, trust, the list goes on. It is important to remember, not all people value the same things at the same rank. When you lead with mindfulness, getting present to what is happening now, you can clearly define your values with your team and understand what they individually value. Mindful communication means that we observe from the current moment and get a broad awareness of where conflict occurs not only for you as the leader but for your team as a whole.
Example:
You have a big project to lead, and everyone currently works from home. You don’t want to micromanage each team member’s work, but you want to be kept in the loop on project progress and work. You value transparency and accountability. Your team member values autonomy, flexibility, and trust and does not prioritize checking in often. Without a dialogue to understand each others values in the current project, a significant conflict can occur.
Often in the workplace culture today, management dictates to the employee how they are expected to check in, and how work is required to be seen. Conflict can happen in this process because the employee’s values of autonomy and flexibility are compromised without management acknowledgment. Management often may not consider the individual values of the employee. The employee can then struggle to meet manager expectations and the manager can become frustrated since neither of their values are met and it has not been communicated mindfully.
Mindful Communication Solution
The above method is not wrong, but it leaves more opportunity for conflict to occur. Implementing mindful communication reduces workplace conflict. As a result, mindful leadership fosters a mutual exchange of values with your team creating coherence. A mindful leader will create and communicate action plans TOGETHER, co-creating a project plan that aligns expectations with the individual values of each employee to ensure everyone works in a way that brings out their best. By stating and listening to the values of the whole team with mindful communication you will reduce workplace conflict, build trust and clear expectations, and increase productivity in the long term.
Mindful Communication Action: Spend time thinking today, what do you personally value most when working with your team? Make a list of your values. How do these values factor into your expectations from your team? Have you asked your team what they value?
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