Supervisor Foundations · Lesson 6.2
LISTEN TO BOTH SIDES
Supervisors often hear about conflict from one person first.
The first version may sound convincing.
But hearing one side is not the same as understanding the situation.
A fair supervisor should ask:
- What happened?
- What did you observe?
- What did you say?
- What did the other person say?
- Was anyone else involved?
- Is there documentation?
- Is this a one-time problem or a pattern?
Poor
“I already heard what happened from him, so I don’t need to hear you.”
Better
“I’ve heard his account. I want to hear yours before I decide what happened.”
WORKPLACE EXAMPLES
EXAMPLE 1
One employee reports that a coworker refused to help.
The coworker explains they were already completing an urgent task assigned by the supervisor.
EXAMPLE 2
A parent complains about a school employee.
BETTER RESPONSE
EXAMPLE 3
Two staff members accuse each other of disrespect.
BETTER RESPONSE
EXAMPLE 4
One employee produces a message thread that adds important context to the disagreement.
Remember
The first person to speak is not automatically the most accurate.
Workplace action
Before deciding, ask: Whose perspective have I not heard yet?
Quick Check
A supervisor hears one employee’s complaint about another. What is the best next step?