Managing conflict involves more than just resolving the disagreement. If you do not address the emotional and psychological needs of the people involved, the conflict may return and/or serious damage to the relationship may occur.

Depending on the severity of the conflict and how it was handled at each step of the resolution process, it may be impossible to return to where you were in the relationship before the disagreement. The key to reducing this possibility is to identify and address conflicting issues as early as possible. The longer a problem remains unresolved, the more damage it can cause. Whenever possible, apply one or more of the following strategies to help protect and salvage the relationship(s) between you and your co-workers, supervisor, and customers. The following are key steps to salvage a relationship once a conflict occurs:

Reaffirms the value of the relationship. You cannot assume that others feel the same way or understand your intention unless you communicate it. Tell them how much you value their relationship. This is especially important when it comes to customers.

Show commitment. You must verbalize and demonstrate your desire to continue or strengthen your relationship. The way to do this with clients is through service recovery or by working collectively with the client to rebuild trust and relationship.

Be realistic. Due to behavioral styles, some people find it difficult to “forgive and forget.” You have to systematically help restore their confidence. It may take a while to achieve this, but the effort is well worth it.

Stay flexible. A strong relationship involves the ability to give and receive. It is especially crucial that you and the other people involved make concessions after the conflict.

Keep communication open. One of the biggest causes of conflict and destroyed relationships is poor communication.

Earn commitment. You can’t do it all by yourself. Obtain a commitment to work toward reconciliation from anyone else involved in the conflict.

Monitor progress. Don’t assume that because the conflict was resolved it will continue to be so. Deep-seated issues often resurface, especially when commitment was not obtained.