Summer holidays are over, yet the weather is heating up and workplace conflict does not seem to have abated. In fact, in many cases it’s in escalation mode! Surely everyone is returning refreshed and ready to go!!! If so, why are Zandy and I getting so many calls. Here’s a quick snapshot of some of these calls during this return to work season.
Misalignment of expectations
One common source of tension is the misalignment of expectations. Zandy coached a manager at a large superfund through a scenario where some employees had returned eager to dive into projects and others… not so eager. They where needing more time to reacclimate, leading to frustrations over imbalances in productivity. Zandy helped them to establish clear communication about priorities, deadlines, and workloads. This was a shock for some, however, it created greater acceptance and accountability across the team about each other’s expectations.
Change in responsibilities
I had a call from a tertiary education institution where there had been a flashpoint due to the redistribution of responsibilities during the holiday period. There had been a range of temporary adjustments made including covering for absent colleagues. These process and role changes were only ever supposed to be temporary, however they had led to feelings of resentment given a lack of recognition and acknowledgement of people stepping up. This quickly became a deeper conflict when an individual created an expectation that these changes would become permanent. This was partly diffused by the manager publicly recognising the efforts of those who took on additional work. Also, there was a requirement to clarify roles and a challenging discussion on how higher duties are allocated was required to prevent lingering dissatisfaction.
Battery still on low
Whilst some people return with their body, mind and soul well rested, at this health care provider the post-holiday energy levels where greatly varied and this was affecting team dynamics. Some of the allied health team returned highly motivated, while others where really struggling with re-entry. It was identified that those who were struggling predominantly had other factors at play before the break, such as personal stressors and burnout. We supported a dialogue creating space for open, non-judgmental conversations about how people are feeling. This was only the first ‘fire fighter’ step to help foster understanding and patience within the team. Of course, we are supporting a much larger initiative to grapple with the issues that were sitting there at the end of 2024.
The issue has never been addressed
Finally, unresolved conflicts from before the holidays can resurface if they were never adequately addressed in the first place. Indeed, this is almost the most common cause. People expect a break away will solve problems, of course it does not, past grievances do not just melt in the summer sun. It’s important for leaders and managers to stop waiting and hoping for a solution and that they become involved, diagnose the issue and work on solutions.
Zandy and I believe that there is always a plan. Please give us a call to discuss how you can set up a plan to manage these workplace conflict issues. By proactively managing these dynamics, teams can transition smoothly from holiday mode, fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment.
If you would like to set up a time to discuss an issue with Zandy or myself please click a link below to find a mutually convenient time.
Zandy: https://calendly.com/zandy-fell/meeting-with-zandy-from-the-zalt-group-30-mins
Tony: https://calendly.com/thezaltgroup-tony-fell/meeting-with-tony-from-the-zalt-group-30min
