
Be specific. “I’m never invited to meetings” is less effective than “I think I could have helped at the last meeting.”
Don’t involve yourself in conflicts that don’t involve you or your job. If someone has been wronged, let them resolve the situation as they choose.
It’s not all about you – You may think it’s a personal attack, but maybe they are just having a bad day. Think BEFORE you respond to an insensitive remark. Saying nothing may be the best response.
Depersonalize conflicts. Instead of a “me versus you” mentality, use an “us versus the problem” approach.
Listen first. Before explaining your position, paraphrase and condense what the other said to see how much you understand their position.
Wait to involve your boss. This shows that you are able to resolve difficulties.
Avoid character assassinations. “He missed last week’s deadline” is OK; “He’s a total idiot” is not.
Lastly, consider a mediator, A neutral third party or hiring a professional consultant is a must if the problem gets out of control, or if the issue is too emotional to resolve in a mutual discussion.
Conflict Management Tips
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Dear Dr. Mimi – Backup
Dear Dr. Mimi,My boss favors another employee and schedules them for more shifts. We are on the same skill level and have had the same training, but I am being treated like a “backup” for them. I am afraid to bring this up to my manager for fear that they will reprimand or even fire…
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Dear Dr. Mimi – Overworked Student
Dear Dr. Mimi,I am a working college student, and my company is supposed to be accommodating to students’ schedules. However, my boss keeps asking me to come into work at times she knows that I have classes or study groups. I have tried to make this issue known to her, but she keeps dismissing me.…
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Dear Dr. Mimi — Frustrated
Dear Dr. Mimi,I trained a new employee about a month ago, but they still don’t seem to be getting it. They mess up almost every task I give them. What can I do to fix this? Should I just fire them?—Frustrated Dear Frustrated,It can be tricky working with new employees. If you think they are…

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