Handling issues between the business and employees is one thing, but disputes between the employees themselves can open a whole other world of challenges.
Minor incidents are manageable with proper disciplinary actions. But what do you do when these conflicts lead to significant risks for your business?
Gather information and find out the root cause
First, you must talk to each employee involved separately to understand each perspective. Encourage open and honest communication, and assure them that you will hear and respect their views.
Document key facts during this process such as:
- Specific incidents
- Dates
- Times
- People involved
- Evidence of wrongdoing
This step will allow you to approach the problem from a neutral view and find the best way to solve it.
Facilitate a resolution
The next step involves guiding your employees to reach a mutually agreeable solution. Start by creating a safe environment with ground rules for respectful communication. Allow each employee to express their perspective.
Identify common goals, then brainstorm potential solutions. Discuss the pros and cons of each option, and guide them to agree on a realistic solution. Finally, document the agreement and plan a follow-up to ensure its effectiveness.
In some cases, you might want to offer mediation or conflict resolution training to maintain a positive relationship.
Recognize the appropriate time for termination
The solutions above may be enough to solve many common employee-to-employee disagreements. However, termination may be the best option in some cases. This applies in situations where a serious legal or ethical violation occurs. Examples include:
- Harassment or bullying: Verbal, physical or psychological acts that create a hostile work environment
- Discrimination: Prejudiced behavior based on race, gender, religion or any other protected characteristic
- Violence or threats: Any acts of violence or threats toward another employee
- Theft or fraud: Stealing from colleagues or engaging in fraudulent activities
These misconducts may serve as grounds for immediate termination. Nevertheless, it is crucial to follow due process and make sure that you follow legal and company policies. Doing so will help you reduce the risk of a wrongful termination claim.
How a lawyer can help
Disputes between employees can lead to an unhealthy work environment, which, in turn, can affect your business’s productivity. At worst, a problematic employee can risk your business facing responsibility for legal violations.
Our attorneys help business owners who need fair employee discipline and proper discharge. Contact us today for a consultation.
