Sources of Conflict within an Organization

What is conflict?

Conflict is a condition that happens when one person obstructs the accomplishment of another’s aims and objectives.

Conflicts usually occur between two or more persons and groups. Since conflict can be a barrier to job activities, managers need to be aware of it.

Conflict is occasionally positive, because it may challenge employees and can arouse innovation. However, too much conflict can be destructive. Unwanted conflict happens when the doings of any one individual or group damage the goals of the institute. Hence the potential sources of conflict within an organization include

Unfair handling of workers

Unjust dismissal

Discrimination

Health related issues

The desire for protective wear

Poor ventilation or exposure to air

Dangerous gas from chemicals

Wages and fringe benefits

Failure to pay allowances

Underpayment

Other Potential sources of internal conflict

• Ineffective communication
• Issues not dealt with successfully by management
• abuse of work rules
• Lack of incentive or support by management
• wrong leadership styles
• Lack of teamwork among workers
• corruption among workers and managers
• Work not done right
• sluggish workers and managers
• Poor decision making
• unfriendliness and distrust
• mix-ups
• Job unhappiness result from :

(1) Low pay

(2) No Promotions

(3) Bad Working hours

(4) Bad holiday arrangements

(5) Little job security

(6) No friendships and relationships between employees