2025 Guide
NAVIGATING WORKPLACE TENSION
A Guide for Constructive Conflict Management in the Workplace.
This handbook is grounded in the findings of our 2025 Conflict Resolution Systems survey. It brings together the voices of over 100 professionals across the global Business Events Industry — from executives and HR leaders to operational managers. Their insights provide a rare window into how organisations today experience, manage, and often struggle with interpersonal workplace challenges.
What makes this publication unique is its practical focus.
It doesn’t just present data — it translates it into key insights, findings, actionable takeaways, opportunities for improvement, and positive trends. It is designed for those who shape workplace culture: managers, HR professionals, and leaders who recognise that how interpersonal tension is addressed says everything about an organisation’s maturity and values.
Employees today expect more than a job. They want leadership that listens, systems that respond, and cultures that support them. This handbook will help you meet those expectations — with practical examples, strategic direction, and real-world learning.
Interpersonal friction is real. So is the hesitation to address it. This guide bridges the gap — between silence and structure, between frustration and real progress.
“I supported this survey because I believe that effective communication and internal dialogue structures are key to sustaining a healthy and resilient workforce in our industry. Sharing it with our members allowed us to contribute to a meaningful industry-wide conversation.” Sven Bossu, CEO – AIPC – Belgium.
INSIDE THE GUIDE
AT A GLANCE
A Clear View of Today’s Reality
What 100+ professionals told us about workplace tension, silence, and resolution.
Where teams are struggling — and what is working.
Quick wins
Key insights and practical takeaways.
Positive trends and untapped opportunities.
Real-life best practices from across industries.
Resources to build healthier communication systems.
Interpersonal conflict is present — but support systems are often missing.
- 95% of professionals have witnessed or experienced internal conflict
- 59% report increased stress
- 50% of managers don’t feel ready to address tension
- 48% experience team dysfunction
- 3.7 hours/week spent on conflict per manager
💡 Top sources of tension: unclear roles, poor communication, weak leadership support
💡 10% increase turning to external facilitation or mediation support
“Having successfully utilised HMS’s services, it was opportune to participate in a survey that will enhance and extend the value of conflict resolution in the events industry workplace. Based on the survey questions, there is no doubt the results / findings will have a positive impact.” Gary Corin – Managing Director – Montgomery Group – South Africa.
METHODOLOGY & GLOBAL REACH
- 100+ participants from 37 countries / regions across the business events industry.
- Diverse representation: venues, organisers, service providers, associations, and beyond.
- 50% of respondents hold executive or senior roles.
- Mixed-format survey with qualitative and quantitative insights.
- Data collected between April and June 2025.
“I think it’s important to share information like this survey that can help our industry rise. We play such an important role in building communities and connections, as a key driver of economic and cultural impact. If we can lead the way by managing conflict positively and productively, we can lead not only our industry, but also EVERY industry that relies on the power of human contact to thrive.” Tammy Sweeney – CEO – TCU Place – Canada.
GET YOUR GUIDE
Download the complete PDF guide for exclusive insights, global benchmarks, and actionable strategies to strengthen your organisation’s internal communication, resolution practices, and cultural resilience.
You will receive access to the guide and occasional updates on practical tools and insights for workplace dialogue. Your information will not be shared with third parties.
READY TO TAKE ACTION
If you’re interested in bringing these insights into your workplace, developing leadership capacity, or strengthening your internal resolution practices — we’re here to support. One conversation at a time.