Workplace Conflict Resolution Secret #3

Many conflict resolution steps are common sense, however they don’t take root until we stop to think about them.  Here is a step you can take for a healthier and more productive workplace:

Bring A Witness:  Sometimes when confronting a co-worker one-on-one with an issue or dispute the person refuses to acknowledge that there is a problem or to take any action to rectify the situation.  If this is the case, rather than write them off as a jerk and proceed to tell the whole office what a horrible person they are, approach another person who can act as a witness to the conflict for assistance.  This should be someone who has witnessed the problem in action and can verify that, yes, there is in fact a problem that needs addressing.  This person is being called upon as a neutral witness rather than somebody who will simply take your side.

Though it may seem awkward at first, the act of bringing in a single witness shows your commitment to seeing the problem delt with and your respect for your co-worker in not slandering them within the workplace.  You have made only one other person privy to the incident.  The witness may also act as a peer mediator if you require assistance in brainstorming solutions and choosing a course of action.