Arguing at work? Good. 

Conflict at work often stems from misunderstandings. That’s what Isabelle Kappetein, Cultural Psychologist & Inclusion Lead at Miro , thinks.

But they don’t always need to be avoided. Healthy confrontations do exist and can bring about good change. In this interview, she explains how to have them.

Silence in meetings isn’t harmony - it’s a warning sign

Most people fear conflict at work. But avoiding it often causes more harm than good. Here are 3 reasons why:

1️⃣ ‘Conflict-averse’ could just mean ‘disengaged’. If your team always agrees, they might be checked out.

2️⃣ Harmony for the sake of harmony kills innovation. In fact, 29% of workers say that workplace conflict led to better solutions to the challenges they faced.

3️⃣ Unspoken disagreements harden into resentment. As Patrick Lencioni, author of The Five Dysfunctions of a Team, puts it:

“Teams that fear conflict… resort to veiled discussions and guarded comments.”

We treat workplace conflict like a problem. And, when handled badly, it can be. But healthy conflict focuses on ideas, not people. It sounds like: “Help me understand your thinking…” not “You’re wrong.” This is how leaders can turn discomfort into progress.

Vanesa Castro Fernandez wouldn't be where she is now if she'd avoided uncomfortable conversations - which is at Leroy Merlin as Head of Social Media.

Here are her 3 tips for confronting situations at work.

"Discomfort is where opportunities begin...Let’s be honest — nobody enjoys conflict. It’s uncomfortable, awkward, and pushes us out of our comfort zone. But here’s the truth: the most powerful transformations often come from the conversations we least want to have. But should it be easy? Definitely not."

1. Talk and truly listen (and please, truly):

Stay proactive. Don’t shy away from difficult conversations. Create space for everyone to express their perspectives. Understanding is the first step toward meaningful solutions.

2. Don’t take things personally:

Conflict isn’t an attack on you. Keep emotions in check, take time to reflect, and respond thoughtfully instead of defensively.

3. Be respectful but clear:

Approach conflicts with calmness and purpose. Communicate your goals openly, but with empathy and respect. Clarity and kindness go hand in hand.

"Growth doesn’t happen in your comfort zone. It happens when we face tough, uncomfortable situations."

⚡ 24 Hours in Paris with our CEO: What Really Happens

Words by Emma Baigey , Lead Copywriter @ Factorial

Illustration by Ainhoa Valero Blanquer, Graphic Designer @ Factorial

Motion graphics by Enrique R. Dávila, Brand Design Lead @ Factorial