Solution: Expecting everyone to get along perfectly in a workplace environment is unrealistic. What Barry can’t tolerate, however, is open feuding that interferes with the smooth operation of his company. Despite the fact that Steve is a knowledgeable superintendent, this does not justify the disruption he is causing in the organization and the ill-will generated among suppliers and subcontractors. While Steve’s hard-nosed approach may be needed from time to time, it isn’t worth the cost in loss of employee morale and productivity.
While some people try too hard to get along, other personality types seem to thrive on conflict. If you have someone like that in your organization, the true cost of your time trying to work with them to smooth out the rough edges is too great to bear. It’s probably easier to teach the retiring types to be more assertive than to get the rough-and-tumble types to start acting like smooth operators.
If Barry does nothing, he is sending a message to his employees, subcontractors, and suppliers that bullying, abrasive tactics are tolerated. That could lead to loss of morale, productivity, and a higher turnover in employees. He may find that some subs will refuse to do business with him, and others will charge a premium to compensate for the hassle.
In this case, Barry probably needs to find a different superintendent. He has discussed this problem with Steve several times with little effect. What Barry has failed to do in the past is to confront Steve directly, state unequivocally that such behavior is unacceptable, and that any further instances in the next few months will lead to termination. By letting the problem go until the situation is affecting other employees, Barry has made things worse. In order to pursue that avenue now, he will have to speak with Peter first and secure his cooperation. Giving Steve a final chance at the cost of losing Peter is not a smart option.
Dealing with workplace conflicts is never easy, but easy or not, they need to be addressed in a timely and appropriate fashion.
Al Trellis, a co-founder of Home Builders Network, has more than 25 years of experience as a custom builder, speaker, and consultant. He can be reached at altrellis@hbnnet.com.
