Confirm the Facts

Don't assume you know the full story

As a leader, it’s up to you to actively resolve conflicts before they escalate.

If one of your team members has a problem with another, listen and take their comments seriously. If it is a serious issue (such as sexual harassment, a hostile work environment, ethical or legal violations, etc.) make sure you document their statements. Have your team member’s back. Bring in HR or legal, if appropriate.

If it is not a situation in which there is legal exposure, though, it can still escalate and create problems in the workplace. But don’t assume that the person who came to you has the full picture. Talk to the other person to find out their side of it. If there has been a misunderstanding, then help the people involved to clear it up. If there is a problematic behavior, give appropriate feedback to the individual to prevent repetition.

(image generated using Midjourney)