Sources of Conflict with Employees (DP IB Business Management)

Revision Note

Written by: Lisa Eades

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

Reasons for Conflict in the Workplace

Inadequate Leadership & Communication	Power Struggles	Relationships
Poor management or leadership styles Lack of support from supervisors Differences in communication styles	Struggles for influence/authority Competition for limited resources or promotions Budget constraints leading to tension Pressure to outperform colleagues	Personality clashes Incompatible work styles Personal biases or prejudices Differences in cultural backgrounds
Workplace Inequities	Stress & Role Ambiguity	Differences in Values and Goals
Perceived favouritism Unequal distribution of resources/opportunities Discrimination or harassment Employees feeling undervalued/unrecognised	High levels of pressure Overworked employees with unrealistic expectations Unclear job responsibilities Lack of role definition leading to confusion	Varied opinions on what is important or priorities Conflicting personal or professional goals Intolerance/inability to compromise

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

Conflict in a business does not always lead to negative outcomes

It can help to solve problems and encourages workers to recognise differences in opinions and perceptions

If it is managed effectively conflict can lead to better outcomes in the future

Last updated: 29 October 2024

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