Overcoming conflict

We are all human; we all struggle under pressure. Even in the best performing teams and organisations, stress, anxiety and tension can arise. You might try to resolve it as quickly as possible, but what happens when things continue to deteriorate? ?

Whether it is conflict at the executive level department managers butting heads, or allegations of bullying, it can be difficult to manage. If left unresolved it will also have a huge effect on staff morale and the effective running of your organisation.

When very senior colleagues are involved, it can be challenging to find an internal colleague who is independent and senior enough to resolve the issue. Instead, you need an independent third party.

Often we can find a way to resolve workplace conflicts informally, through exploratory conversations and sensitive facilitation. Alternatively, if it’s reached the point of a formal process, we can conduct a full investigation and make recommendations for a hearing, including potential resolutions.

We always investigate with a view to resolution where possible.

As independent consultants, we offer a neutral, unbiased perspective. We ensure everyone involved has a safe space to express their experiences and concerns. This is done through conducting formal, private meetings with each person involved in the conflict and interviewing witnesses. Every meeting is recorded and transcribed to ensure a full and accurate record of the discussions. Investigations often take time to complete and these records are essential when we come to analysing and concluding our findings.

We have long experience of working on investigations that involve union and professional body representatives. With vast experience in the public sector and non-profit organisations, we also understand the complexity, hierarchies and structures of these organisations.