4 steps to dealing with workplace conflict
Learn how to manage conflict with your manager, rebuild trust, and restore a professional relationship after tense situations or mistakes.
Conflict with your manager happen. Sometimes, things get out of control, it could be a tense one-on-one, or a mistake that damages trust. These situations are challenging, but they’re not irreparable.
Here’s a 4-step framework for repairing damaged relationship with your manager:
Step 1: Own Your Mistakes
The first step in resolving conflict is to own responsibility for your actions. Acknowledge where you went wrong and apologize sincerely, without making excuses. For example:
“I handled this poorly.”
“I’m committed to fixing our relationship and ensuring this doesn’t happen again.”
From there, shift the conversation toward solutions. Ask, “How can we fix this together?” Work wit your manager to agree on clear next steps, make sure you document them to prevent misunderstandings and ensure accountability, as it is the foundation for rebuilding trust.
Step 2: Focus on Adding Value
Once you’ve acknowledged your mistakes, let your actions do the talking. Re-establishing trust requires consistent effort. Focus on:
Delivering high-quality work.
Sharing updates proactively and documenting your progress.
Aligning your efforts with team goals to demonstrate reliability.
Consistency over time proves that you’re serious about rebuilding trust and adds tangible value to the relationship.
Step 3: Be Patient
Trust is not rebuilt overnight. It takes time and repeated positive interactions to restore credibility. Be patient with the process, even if it feels slow.
Every delivered result, constructive interaction, and demonstrated improvement is a step forward. Stay consistent, and the relationship will gradually improve.
Step 4: Follow Up
Resolution doesn’t end with a single conversation. Regular check-ins show that you’re committed to maintaining and strengthening the relationship. Use these opportunities to:
Ask for feedback on how things are improving.
Reaffirm your dedication to the relationship and team goals.
Follow-ups demonstrate your investment in long-term success, not just short-term fixes.
Final Thoughts
Relationships may not always return to what they were, but with effort and persistence, you can rebuild credibility and move forward stronger than before.
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, the relationship remains strained or the environment becomes untenable. In these cases, it’s okay to move on. Prioritize your well-being and growth over staying in a toxic or irreparable situation.
Walking away isn’t a failure; it’s a recognition that some situations cannot be fixed. It’s better to focus your energy on opportunities that align with your values and aspirations.
What strategies have worked for you when handling workplace conflict? Share your insights in the comments!