Question

An HR manager leads a three-person team that is designing new audit processes and tools. One member who is new to the organization argues forcefully for approaches that she used in her previous job. The other two team members complain off-line to the team leader, saying that the new member does not listen and just wants to do things in a familiar way. What should the team leader do?

Promptly and privately meet with the new member and discuss project goals and team ground rules.
Encourage the new member to continue bring new ideas into the discussion and improve the team process.
Counsel the two team members that they must show more patience and support for the new team member
Express understanding to the team members but allow the team members to correct the situation themselves.

Answer 1

The HR manager should handle the situation by holding a private meeting with the new team member to discuss project goals and team dynamics, employ active listening, and ensure that all team members feel valued and respected.

Step-by-step explanation:

The team leader should take a proactive approach to resolve the conflict within the team. This involves promptly and privately meeting with the new member to discuss project goals and team ground rules. By carefully selecting words to not inflame the situation, the leader can avoid suggesting that one approach is right and the other is wrong, instead remaining open and respectful to the new ideas while ensuring alignment with team goals.

Open-ended questions will allow the team leader to understand the new member’s perspective better. By using active listening techniques, such as restating what the person says, misunderstandings can be avoided, and it shows that their contributions are valued. This reaffirms the importance of being a team player and maintaining a positive attitude.

It is also essential that the team leader addresses the concerns of the other team members directly. By encouraging patience and support, the leader can foster a respectful and collaborative environment. Communicating the value of independent problem-solving and initiative can also contribute to a more effective team dynamic, where all members feel their contributions to streamlining audit processes are equally important.

Ultimately, focusing on solving the problem collectively, treating all team members equitably, and remaining flexible are crucial steps to ensuring a productive and harmonious workplace.