Sources of Conflict with Employees (DP IB Business Management): Revision Note

Sources of conflict with employees

• Conflict at all levels in the workplace can arise as a result of differences in goals, values, personalities or communication styles

• Unresolved workplace conflict can lead to a range of issues

  • Lower productivity as workers are distracted from the task at hand

  • Reduce employee morale as a result of anxiety/stress

  • Limit opportunities for collaboration

  • Create negative workplace 'politics' which can undermine business efficiency

Reasons for conflict in the workplace

• Inadequate leadership and communication

  • Poor management or leadership styles

  • Lack of support from supervisors

  • Differences in communication styles that lead to misunderstandings

• Power struggles

  • Struggles for influence or authority within teams

  • Competition for limited resources or promotional opportunities

  • Budget constraints creating internal tensions

  • Pressure to outperform colleagues, fostering rivalry

• Relationships

  • Personality clashes between employees

  • Incompatible work styles that affect collaboration

  • Personal biases or prejudices impacting team dynamics

  • Differences in cultural backgrounds causing misunderstandings or discomfort

• Workplace inequities

  • Perceived favouritism by management

  • Unequal distribution of resources or opportunities

  • Incidents of discrimination or harassment

  • Employees feeling undervalued or lacking recognition for their efforts

• Stress and role ambiguity

  • High levels of pressure and workplace stress

  • Employees feeling overworked or facing unrealistic expectations

  • Unclear job responsibilities creating confusion

  • Lack of defined roles leading to inefficiencies and conflict

• Differences in values and goals

  • Conflicting opinions on what is most important in the workplace

  • Misaligned personal or professional goals between team members

  • Intolerance or an inability to compromise during disagreements