Workplace disputes are a common occurrence. It happens in an office, and it can happen at the home office too. They often arise from misunderstandings or disagreements about how work is done, how work should be done, or who should be doing the work.
In these situations, it is important to find a way to put aside personal feelings and find a compromise that will make everyone happy. Here are three workplace disputes and how to handle them efficiently, so they don’t cause any major problems thereafter.
Read More: Free Payroll and W-2 Advice That Could Save You Headache
1. The Boss vs. the Worker
The boss argues that the worker has to take on more responsibility for the good of all. The worker complains that they are not given enough authority or plenty of opportunities to complete specific tasks. While they seem easy, these workplace disputes are crucial and need quick resolutions.
The manager should tread carefully and ask to find out what each individual’s role is by asking clarifying questions, such as: “How are you supposed to do this?” “What are your responsibilities?” and “What else do you need to know?”
To solve such a dispute, the manager must also understand their job description in detail, including what specific goals they must accomplish for the company. Any workplace misunderstanding or disputes can be resolved by clarifying these points with both parties involved so they can sort things out.
Read More: Creating a Positive Workplace Culture For Your Employees: Do’s And Don’ts
2. The Worker vs. the Co-worker
This dispute is common among co-workers who are not located in a specific office, but all seem to be working on the same product or brand. The CEO will most likely ask them to work more closely together and help each other out.
For example, those who work in the marketing department might often be assessed individually. This will help them better understand their role and realize how their job relates to others.
The manager should use these opportunities to explain how their (employees) work impacts the brand. Everyone must understand how they affect the other parties and the business at large. They need to follow the organization’s guidelines on working together, even if they are located in different departments or given other tasks.
Read More: Infographic: 20 Productivity Apps to Keep You on Task
3. FMLA-Related Disputes
Employees should be able to take time off for medical issues without the fear of being fired. If an employee cannot work because of a severe health emergency, they must be allowed to do so without any worries.
This is stipulated under the FMLA (Family and Medical Leave Act). Unfortunately, these kinds of situations do happen and make it hard for an employer to keep their employees happy.
In case of FMLA disputes, the employer will want to know if the employee was unable to work or if there was another reason for not being able to deliver. An excellent way to find out the reason is to talk to the employee directly, asking them about the incident. If it persists, you might want to talk to a lawyer to assist you deal with the disputes.
Conclusion
If you are going through some disputes at the workplace, you need to know how to handle them. While it may be your fault, it is not always the case. If you learn how to handle these situations correctly, you will keep your employer, employees, and other stakeholders happy.
When everyone is satisfied and happy, the business or workplace generally has a better chance of blossoming.