Savvy Library

Advice On Handling Workplace Problems

It is unfortunate, but the workplace is somewhere where problems and conflict can occur on a regular basis. This will often come down to the stressful environment but sometimes it can be more sinister and upsetting. It is important that you know how to be shrewd and knowledgeable in how to handle workplace issues so that the problem can be resolved and not be a problem further down the line. So, if you are struggling with a problem that has arisen in the workplace and you are not sure how to solve the problem then read on for a few suggestions.

Communication

Like any kind of conflict, communication is normally the best approach for resolving the matter.

With co-workers: If you are having difficulties with a co-worker then it is important to be polite yet direct. Try to handle the matter informally and in private at first but if the problem persists then you may need to go down the more formal route and speak to your supervisor.

With your supervisor: Communicating openly with your supervisor is also key as they will need to provide a productive working environment for you. If you are having difficulties with your supervisor then it is worth speaking to the HR department or their own supervisor. Maybe suggest to thing to do a pulse survey to understand their employees. Suggestions like these will help make both your and their working lives easier.

Maintain Records

It is good practice to keep a record of any issues that you might be having with someone else particularly if it is workplace bullying – if there are any witnesses then it can be helpful to get their version of events too.

Familiarize Yourself With Company Rules & Regulations

Every company will have a protocol for handling certain issues, so it is helpful to familiarize yourself with this so that you know what the best course of action is and who you should speak to to resolve the matter.

Taking Legal Action

If you decide to take legal action, then you will want to seek a settlement agreement between employer and employee with the help of solicitors that specialize in employment law. A settlement agreement is a legally binding agreement where the employee agrees to settle any potential employment claims in return for financial compensation from the employer. Do you live in Denver? Baird Quinn LLC are a Colorado based employment law firm that can help people with employment law issues. A few common types of employment law issues include:

  • Discrimination
  • Equal pay
  • Victimization or harassment
  • Unfair dismissal
  • Whistleblowing

Most of the above are fairly self-explanatory, but in regards to whistleblowing, there are laws such as the California Whistleblower Law that protect employees from ever being retaliated against by their employers after reporting that their employer has violated any laws or breached the publics’ trust.

Remain Professional & Positive

It can be difficult to remain professional and positive at work when you feel that you have been wronged. Staying professional will help you to rise above the issue and help to make the future easier. In order to remain professional and positive, you may find that you need to vent so it can be helpful to lean on a support network outside of the workplace. Additionally, you should make sure that you are looking after yourself with regular exercise, eating a healthy diet, managing your stress and getting enough sleep.

Conflict and issues in the workplace can be troubling and interfere with your happiness. Knowing how to handle these issues is key to resolving the problem while maintaining a professional attitude. Sometimes an issue can be resolved with communication, but sometimes you may find that you need to take the issue further and make it a legal matter. Ultimately, resolving employment disputes sometimes involves reaching out to an employment law specialist such as LegalVision. Just remember, if you do decide to take legal action, it is always in your best interest to do your research first.

7 Comments

  • Lauryn R

    This is such great advice for the workplace, thanks for sharing! I haven’t worked in 8 years, which is crazy now that I think about it. I do remember it well and definitely have seen problems occur. I always tried my best to mind my own business, keep to myself, and stay professional.

  • Tamra Phelps

    Work can become a hellish place if conflicts erupt. And heaven help the place if one worker likes drama or is a bully. It can be like being back in high school.

  • June S.

    (Advice On Handling Workplace Problems) I am passing this artical on to my youngest son to read about. He does not like conflict at work, and sometimes when people pick up on this they have a habit of trying to bully others about it.

  • Shakeia Rieux

    This is great advice! I never had to deal with bullying in a workplace, but if I had problems with co-workers I would talk to them about it before going to the supervisor. I will definitely keep these things in mind, especially about keeping a record cause you never know when you might need it and also put date and time the problems occurred.

  • Edna Williams

    Workplace conflict is very common and can be frustrating. Good information here for handling it! Thanks for sharing!

  • Calvin

    It’s sad how bad the social elitism is today everywhere you go. I think this breaks down most of the problems and how to deal with it. Definitely fortunate to not work in a workplace