Dear Dr. Mimi: Middleman

, , ,

Dear Dr. Mimi:
Two of my colleagues are in the middle of a dispute, and since I know both participants well, I feel like I’m getting in the middle of things. They both have some legitimate issues and are blaming each other for the situation. I am constantly hearing each side of the argument, and I don’t know how to help! What can I do?
—Middleman

Dear Middleman:
Your concerns are valid, and taking sides is definitely not the way to go. It is more important to resolve the situation than to place blame. If you take sides, you risk alienating one of the individuals and appearing biased to all involved. Encourage both parties to talk about how they feel and to come to a resolution together. If you or someone else can serve as a mediator with both of them in the same room, that can help. If you know the individuals well, you may be able to frame the issues to encourage compromise, collaboration, and resolution.
—Dr. Mimi

Written By

drmimi

  • Why You Need Team Building Training…NOW!

    To Enhance Your Communication: When individuals understand how to communicate effectively, they can express ideas clearly, provide feedback, and avoid misunderstandings. This creates an environment where team members feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and opinions, which fosters creativity and problem-solving. To Build Trust and Collaboration: Our team building activities encourage individuals to rely on one…

  • Become More Courageous!

    Sometimes, to keep from making a mistake, we play things safe. While this is done to be careful and mindful, “playing it safe” can hold us back- especially when this behavior becomes a pattern. Here are some pointers to help build courage within yourself and your coworkers: Finding Courage. Accept that you will have to…

  • Five Mistakes Leaders Often Make- UNITENTIONALLY!