Final answer:
When consensus can't be reached among conflicting employees, the best action is to a. express the strengths and weaknesses of a decision, manage discussion respectfully, and seek resolution through open dialogue or referral to HR if necessary.
Step-by-step explanation:
Resolving Conflict Without Consensus
When employees fail to reach a consensus, it's essential to manage the situation effectively to prevent escalation and maintain a positive working environment. The recommended action when there is a failure to get consensus among conflicting employees is to express the strengths and weaknesses of a decision and how it will be addressed, suggesting a path toward resolution that takes into consideration multiple viewpoints. Here are steps to facilitate a productive discussion:
- Choose your words carefully to avoid inflaming the situation.
- Stay as calm as possible and listen respectfully to understand differing perspectives.
- Ask open-ended questions to explore underlying concerns and avoid asserting that one party is right and the other wrong.
- Focus on solving the problem, not placing blame.
- Refer matters that cannot be resolved to a supervisor or HR department.
Remember that conflict resolution strategies focus on repair and understanding. Words like possible, likely, and plausible can soften the tone of the conversation, promoting a more collaborative dialogue. Various methods, such as delegating decision-making or group decision-making, come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages, which should be weighed carefully.