As a manager, you have a lot of responsibility on your plate. That’s why, when employees aren’t getting along, it can feel like another to-do in a long list of them. Should you just let them work it out and get on with your day? Or should you step into the fray?
As one of South Florida’s leading staffing services firms, Future Force knows that the first question you should ask yourself is:
What kind of conflict is it?
If there’s a minor spat going on between employees, you might be best off to let them solve it. After all, it’s not your job to be a constant mediator, but a manager.
If employees are regularly getting into small disputes, then it’s up to you to give them the tools and resources they need to manage the conflict productively on their own. That way, you don’t have to worry about them running to you at the first sign of an issue. They’ll know what to do to reach a mutual agreement going forward.
For instance, you might want to offer to buy them lunch and ask them to go work it out. Once they’re out of the office, on neutral ground, they’ll likely make more leeway in terms of overcoming their disagreement.
If, however, the problem is more serious and involves issues like harassment, violence, or something that could potentially escalate, then it’s up to you to step in and get your team back on track. Some other signs you need to intervene include:
- An employee suddenly changes their behavior
- Increased absenteeism
- A reduction in productivity numbers
- A noticeably higher level of stress at work
- Your team is divided
Once you know you should step in, it’s important to avoid taking sides. While you might agree with one party over another, choosing sides could make matters worse. The other employee might look at this as a sign of favoritism and dismiss anything of value you have to offer. Instead, try to be a neutral party to help your employees resolve their conflict together.
In general, it’s also important for you, as the boss, to model the kind of behavior you expect to see in your employees. Always be open and respectful, even when you disagree with someone. Also, if someone is acting inappropriately, it’s important for you to deal with that kind of behavior immediately, so you’re setting the tone that it won’t be tolerated.
Need help with these and other HR- and staffing-related issues?
Call the team at Future Force. As one of South Florida’s leading staffing services firms, we can help you with your hiring, screening and onboarding processes, as well as staffing and HR, all so you build a team with strong, healthy performers. Contact Future Force today to learn more.