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How should I handle conflict between members of my workforce?

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One of the most uncomfortable aspects of workforce management is conflict resolution. Unfortunately, when you work with people, conflict is inevitable, and one of the unenviable roles of a manager is the role of peacemaker in a conflict between members of your team.

This conflict could be caused by a major infraction such as a sexual harassment claim or an ethics violation. Many times, intra-office conflict is simply a case of two workers with different personalities failing to get along. Regardless, a manager�s job is to guide the workforce through and past this potential roadblock.

The first step to resolving conflict in the workplace is often simply to discern what took place. Talk to all sides (be careful not to play favorites) and try to determine what exactly happened. Is it a situation in which blame falls on both parties? One person? Neither party? If you need to, discipline one or both parties. Don�t make a spectacle of it, but make sure it is clear what kind of behavior is acceptable at the workplace.

Don�t make things worse by making a mountain out of a molehill. Discourage gossip, criticism, and blame-casting, and encourage employees to come directly to you if they have a complaint. If you have to, separate the angry parties, but above all, move forward. The quicker everyone gets back to work, the quicker the problem will be forgotten. A more serious or chronic conflict may require additional peacemaking, but regardless, encourage everyone involve to forgive the other party and move on.

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