
Effective conflict management: the best tips for productive works council work
Why conflicts must be managed rather than avoided
Conflicts are part of co-determination at the workplace. Differing opinions, interests and power relations inevitably lead to tensions. However, instead of viewing conflicts as a disruptive factor, the Hans Böckler Foundation Study 2022¹ shows that professional conflict management can make a decisive contribution to corporate development.
Findings from the Hans Böckler Foundation Study 2022
Conflict density in works councils
- 91% of the works council members surveyed regularly experience internal and external conflicts.
- 60 % feel that conflicts hinder them in their actual work.
Lack of conflict competence
- Only 39% of works councils feel well prepared to deal with conflicts.
- 28% higher employee satisfaction is recorded by companies that actively promote conflict management.
The cost of unresolved conflicts
- Up to 35% higher fluctuation is recorded in companies with frequent conflicts.
- 20% more sick days among works councils are caused by ongoing conflicts.
Successful solution strategies
- 45 % reduction in internal tensions through supervision and coaching.
- Works councils with structured conflict management achieve more sustainable negotiation results.
Practical strategies for conflict resolution
Define clear processes
Involving external mediators
Neutrality makes it easier to find a solution. External mediation defuses up to 70% of conflicts at an early stage.
Strengthen conflict competence
Training courses and workshops help to resolve conflicts more efficiently. Companies with regular training courses report 40% less internal tension.

"We have introduced a fixed routine: Every conflict is documented, analyzed and discussed according to a set procedure."
Case study: Conflict resolution in a large company

"Good conflict management improves cooperation throughout the company."
5 success factors for sustainable conflict management:
- Early intervention – avoiding escalation through proactive communication.
- Establishing mediation processes – firmly anchoring neutral mediation.
- Regular training – continuous skills enhancement.
- Open feedback culture – clearly identifying problems and solving them together.
- Adopting best practices – integrating proven models into your own practice.
Conclusion: Seeing conflicts as an opportunity
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Sources
- Hans Böckler Foundation: Study on conflict management in works councils, 2022.