Thirteen weeks can turn into a lifetime when there is conflict at your temporary workplace. It can really make your time as a traveler difficult. Workplaces are full of employees with different backgrounds, personalities, and opinions. So conflict is going to happen. However, you can avoid conflict by understanding how to handle it as a healthcare professional. Try to address disputes when they arise, instead of letting them fester and get worse. Build good relationships with your coworkers and always try to remain positive in the workplace. Partnering with a reputable staffing partner can certainly help you manage workplace conflict, too.

Address Conflict Quickly and Professionally

Most of us avoid confrontation and the discomfort that accompanies it. And, understandably, you might want to postpone it. But when left unaddressed, conflict will escalate. So, address the situation calmly and in private instead of letting the conflict get worse. Ensure you have the facts, keep your focus on the details, and avoid emotions. Always listen carefully to others and their concerns before responding. While addressing conflict, you might even realize there is common ground between you.

Coworker Relationships

Good relationships with your coworkers can make an assignment better and easier when there is conflict in the workplace. To foster relationships, take the first step and introduce yourself. Kindness with a smile on your face goes a long way. It is essential to understand how teams communicate and collaborate in your workplace, and how the different workflows move. So, always be flexible and ready to learn. Demonstrate that you are a team player.

Set Boundaries to Avoid Miscommunication

Professional boundaries are something you need to set well in advance of your assignment. Setting them early will help prevent miscommunications later on down the road. Ensure you are all on the same page regarding responsibilities. Gossip and negative conversations never have good endings and can ruin your reputation, so avoid these things. If a coworker crosses a line with you, let them know. But do so politely and try to take a collaborative approach.

Staying Positive

So, with all of this conflict, how do you maintain a positive reputation? You can navigate the workplace conflict with these strategies:

• Be professional. Focus on your job and stay out of the gossip and workplace politics.
• Be flexible. Watch and adjust to communication styles and adapt to your team dynamics.
• Avoid topics that might make others uncomfortable. Avoid politics and religion conversations.
• Be careful with social media. Pay attention to your interactions with coworkers online and make sure the tone is appropriate.

A Trusted Support System

The best news for a travel nurse when it comes to workplace conflict is that you do not have to go it alone. A travel nurse staffing agency that makes your well-being a priority during disputes is a great partner to have. ADN Healthcare is that staffing partner. Let them help you get the fair treatment you deserve and the positive work experience you seek.