Sometimes in interpersonal relationships, such as those between you and one of your employees, there may be a conflict that you are not aware of. If someone who is normally upbeat and friendly toward you suddenly begins avoiding you or being rude, there is usually a reason. If the person has remained cheerful with everyone else except you, chances are you are dealing with a conflict situation. In these instances, you will want to address the problem by following these steps.
Try to determine if there is a problem between you and the other person.
If you think there is a problem, set up a private face-to-face meeting to discuss what is going on with the other person.
In a nonconfrontational manner, ask the person if there is a problem. If they don't see a problem, let the person know that you think there is something that is not going right and explain what you think the problem is.
As you talk, ask for feedback. Do not make accusations.
Try to listen to each other with open minds.
Be sure to respect each other's opinions.
Take a few minutes to recycle the other person's opinions in your mind.
Try to determine why the other person felt the way they did.
Avoid "finger-pointing."
Try to work out a compromise that works for both of you.
If this does not result in a satisfactory solution, you may need to bring in an unbiased, third party to help you come to an agreement that works for both of you. Such a person is called a mediator. Most communities and many businesses have trained mediators who are available to help resolve such differences.
