Throughout January I had been very busy carrying out Workplace Mediations and Workplace Investigations. Conflict is on the rise in the workplace, but how we respond to it matters more now than ever. With so many external factors effecting our people, it is no wonder that those complexities come into the workplace.

What I have seen a lot over the past month is conflict that has been allowed to fester and manifest itself, which not only effects the employees involved, but the wider employee community and in turn can create a toxic culture. Acting at the first sign of conflict between employees is critical, it creates trust, and a culture where employees will speak out when they find themselves in conflict.

The initial approach is easier than you think. When an employee comes to you to speak about a problem that they have, this will have taken a lot of strength and courage, so in the first instance, actively listening to what they are telling you goes a long way. Listening to understand rather than listening to act.

Next assure the employee that action will be taken. At this point consider what action needs to happen based on what you have been told, is this something that needs to be investigated or would it be a suitable case for Workplace Mediation? Whatever is decided, taking the appropriate action in a timely manner is key to supporting your employees, and creating a culture or trust and transparency.

I would love to learn more about the types of conflict that you are facing in your workplace, and how you feel about resolving it. It can be a minefield. 

So far February is shaping up to be another busy month of conflict resolution. 

Take care all, 

Gemma