CONFRONTING AN EMPLOYEE WITH A CONDUCT ISSUE

Tamiko Timid is one of only two women working in delivery. Recently, she approached Joe and said Fred Staid, delivery team leader, has been bothering her. Specifically, she says he has been telling off-color jokes among some of her male coworkers. While these men do not seem to mind the humor, Tamiko says it is offensive to hear. Tamiko also says Fred has been staring at her. Joe has never witnessed Fred behaving in this fashion, though he is aware that Fred is a “good ol’ boy” and likes to spend time with the other men during break times. Joe has no idea what they talk about.

Both Fred and Sally Ambitious have applied for the vacant customer service team leader position. Joe has not made any decision regarding this position and is, in fact, not sure either individual would be appropriate. Though excellent employees, Fred can be gruff at times and Sally can be pushy. Neither of these qualities seems appropriate for a customer service position. Joe, of course, has not shared his thoughts on this matter to anyone but Jim Talent.

Fred has made some subtle inferences lately that suggest that he believes he is not being fairly treated. He recently reacted when Joe offered praise to Sally for coming up with a creative solution to a tricky customer service problem. Fred said that he could have come up with a similar solution, but that it takes time to think through these problems. Fred has also been critical about Sally’s “recklessness” in making decisions. He complains that Sally is a “newby.” Joe also overheard Fred grumble to a coworker that, “I’ve been around this place long enough; it’s about time I got a break for a change.”

Finally, it is known that Tamiko and Sally are close friends and often go to lunch together. Tamiko has hinted that she would love to have Sally as her boss.

Joe has asked to meet with Tamiko to discuss her concerns further.

Question.

1. What angry or defensive responses might you anticipate from Fred or the other men?

How would you respond?

2. do you feel employees should try to solve confrontations themselves? do you feel they are capable or ambitious enough to do so? How would you communicate to your employees there responsibility to address issues?