“The way forward is through open, frank dialogue and a willingness to find a workable solution that doesn’t put an undue burden on anyone.”
Sage advice -and- there’s a lot in there.
First, “open, frank dialogue” doesn’t come naturally to everyone, especially when emotions are running high. Sometimes, when there are human resource and equity issues at play, a mediator or coach can be helpful and necessary to de-escalate tensions, effectively problem solve, and do right by everyone from a legal and fairness standpoint.
“Finding a workable solution that does not put undue burden on anyone” might be hard if it’s a repetitive or long term issue. I have plenty of clients who are unhappy about the workload they have taken on when others take vacation or are out for extended periods of time. Some work their own shift during the day and then have to cover several hours in the evening. Some employers don’t feel like they have the resources and or the desire to bring someone else in or to find a better solution. That creates a lot of pressure for employees. Stress skyrockets when negative situations seems out of one’s control. Any equal dose of compassion and fair play (you pat my back, I’ll pat yours) could be the right medicine.
I love this column which appears in the Sunday New York Times, click below for more workplace Q&A from Roxane Gay.