Sometimes it's a differing of opinions or personalities. Other times it's a complete imbalance of work. When personal conflicts are impairing your work environment, use these practical steps to handle the situation.

1. Keep an open mind. It’s not always about right and wrong. Try to understand both sides and find a common ground.
2. Consider what might have caused the conflict. Look objectively at the situation and think of ways it could’ve been handled differently.
3. Respect differences. Workplaces are more diverse than ever, and what one person considers acceptable might be offensive to another. Utilize your company’s diversity program (if you have one) or introduce one.
4. Express your willingness to talk about the situation. You can likely solve this collectively.
5. Listen. Don’t jump to conclusions. Instead, try to acknowledge the other person’s feelings.
6. Think before you talk. Try to communicate without placing blame. Use “I” statements to explain how you feel.
7. Know when to ask for help. Recruit someone (manager, HR, etc.) to help if the conflict escalates.
8. Resolve the problem. The problem still exists until both parties feel better about the situation. Before moving on, offer suggestions for how to handle a similar situation in the future.

“By understanding the issue and taking positive action, you can help solve the problem and make your office a place where you really want to be,” explains Susan Lankton-Rivas, a practice leader at human resources consulting firm Insight Performance Inc.