101 Tips for Telecommuters—Successfully Manage Your Work, Team, Technology and Family

63. Resolve Conflicts Effectively and Proactively

Conflicts are bound to arise in the course of your work with colleagues, co-workers, suppliers, and customers. The source of conflicts may range from differences in beliefs, perspective, work methods, and interpersonal style to feelings of anger or resentment regarding your telecommuting arrangement (Tip 53). Conflict situations also are exacerbated by stress associated with workloads, time constraints, resource limitations, and miscommunication. You're in a unique situation as a telecommuter to be somewhat of a lightning rod for conflict due to your remoteness from the workplace, as well as any negative feelings people may have about your ability to telecommute.

Sometimes conflict lurks around ...