7 Ways to De-escalate Your Office Tension
One of the most important things you can do to maintain a healthy office environment is to learn how to de-escalate tension. Here are seven ways to do just that:
1. Speak slowly and calmly, be open minded .
Many times we are misunderstood because of how we speak. It is important to remember that everyone is different, to avoid unnecessary conflicts once must deal with situations with a calm mind. The best way to avoid conflict is to be respectful of others and to handle disagreements in a constructive manner.A mediation mindset is a place for trying to get to the root of an issue. That might mean proceeding without an agenda and just trying to learn more. Use open-ended questions: “Can you tell me why?” Keep the questions to six words or fewer. And don’t think too much. Just be curious.
2. Avoid aggressing or provoking your co-workers.
Aggression in the workplace can take many forms, but it is always destructive. It can range from verbal attacks and threats to physical violence. Conflict in the workplace can be very costly, both financially and emotionally. It can also damage relationships and create a hostile work environment. Some ways to do this are by not talking negatively about them behind their back, not taking their things without asking, and not interrupting them when they are speaking. It is also important to be aware of your body language and tone of voice when interacting with them.
One of the traps of digging into hard conversations is a desire to get to a copacetic place where everyone feels better. Head for the fiery core of the issue. Find the pain points. And, before getting wrapped up in resolving, acknowledge how they’re affecting everyone. The ultimate goal of mediation, after all, isn’t agreement. It’s understanding.
3. Use humour to break the ice and ease tensions.
It’s no secret that laughter is a powerful tool.A good sense of humour can make people feel more comfortable and open up, which can lead to a better conversation. Humour also helps to defuse awkward moments and can make difficult conversations more bearable and even boost our mood.When we’re able to laugh together, it creates a sense of rapport and strengthens our relationships. In short, using humour is a great way to vibe together and build relationships.
4. Body Language speaks volume .
Be aware of your body language and use it appropriately, such as crossing your arms or elevating your voice. Be as specific as possible when you talk about your concern.
Stand up for yourself and avoid the passive aggressive behaviour of being a “complainer.”
Consider whether your complaint is really legitimate.
5. Ask yourself, “What do I want?” Repeat it back !
To avoid miscommunication, repeat or summarise their words back to them in a form like, “What I’m hearing you say is…” It creates a feedback loop that allows someone to course correct or dial it back.
6. Never appear helpless or disinterested; be assertive rather than aggressive.
Many people mistakenly believe that being assertive and being aggressive are the same thing. However, there is a big difference between the two. Assertiveness is about standing up for yourself and your rights in a respectful way. Aggression, on the other hand, is about trying to dominate or control others.Acting assertively means being clear and direct in your communication, while being respectful of the other person. It also means standing up for yourself and not letting people walk all over you. On the other hand, acting aggressively involves trying to dominate or intimidate the other person, which can lead to hostility and conflict.
7. Assume good intentions
When we are in conflict, our view of the other person becomes so narrow that we do not see them as a fleshed-out person. Try to assume that the other person is acting in good faith. That baseline assumption can get you through plenty of instances of misplaced tone and timing.
