25% of employees have reported that conflict or the avoidance of conflict has resulted in sickness or avoidance of work. Absenteeism and presenteeism account for an average of 3.2 days lost productivity per worker per year.
That's big hit to your:
- productivity;
- customer service;
- distribution;
- brand;
- bottom line profits;
- your state of well-being
Case study after case study reveal the economic and emotional cost of conflict in the workplace. A recent report revealed conflict in Australia costs businesses $10 B per year! In addition, if not managed, conflict can progress to bullying,and new workplace health and safety legislation places a duty on workplaces to eliminate or minimise, as far as reasonably practicable, these risks to health and safety. This duty includes the implementation of strategies to prevent workplace bullying, and not being able to demonstrate that you have done so can land you in hot water.
A caring, yet commercially focused HR professional can help manage this scourge of the workplace, and guide you and your people to re-align with business goals. Conflict can be managed, and with time, planning, and focus; calm, productivity and improved customer service and staff and employer well-being can be restored. Your wallet will also thank you. For assistance with managing conflict contact us.