This article was originally published on ComeRecommended.com.

Workplace conflict is inevitable. In fact, 85 percent of employees have to deal with conflict to some degree on a regular basis. In the United States, employees spend nearly three hours per week dealing with conflict.

Knowing how to handle workplace conflict can mean the difference between a productive work environment and an unpleasant one. The following infographic from Abilene Christian University examines nine of the most essential steps every workplace leader can take to keep workplace conflict at bay.

It’s all about recognizing that conflict will happen, being proactive, understanding the issues, and creating compromise. In doing so, be sure to keep it professional, not personal.

Conflict in the workplace can lead to project failure (10 percent of the time), as well as sickness or absence (25 percent of the time). You and your company only have a finite amount of time and energy. Take the time to evaluate whether or not this particular issue is worth the conflict. If not, let it go.

The best solution to conflict is prevention. Nearly all of employees (95 percent) who received conflict management training said it helped in some way.

The infographic below features several effective methods for handling disagreements, best communication practices, as well as other professional tips:

What advice do you have for managing workplace conflict?