Examine three key contributors to the conflict from the scenario of James and Renee and how this is manifested by the individuals' behaviour.

Identify and discuss one potential impact from this conflict for Renee and one impact for James in terms of their workplace relationship and discuss one potential impact on the business operation.

Scenario

You are team leader at a busy open plan advertising agency. Recently the agency has increased its employee numbers; space and room availability has become an issue. Renee and James work in your organisation, Renee is fairly new to the agency, whilst James has been with the agency for 8 years. They have formed a new team and work together in their department. You happen to overhear an interpersonal conflict as transcribed below between Renee and James; as a team leader it's your responsibility to examine and try to resolve the issues of the conflict in order to manage and support positive workplace relationships.

Dialogue:

Renee: James, would you mind trading conference rooms today?

James: Why would I want to do that?

Renee: Well, I have invited several others to participate in a call with a potential new client and wanted to use the larger room so we could fit comfortably. I thought you were just making a call to your field staff and wouldn't need the large room.

James: You thought wrong. I need the larger room. Renee: But aren't you the only one on the call on this end? James: I said no. I scheduled the room because I need it.

Renee: Okay, I noticed that you have reserved it for the entire afternoon. You're just having your weekly call with field staff. Will you really need it for that entire time? Could I have it beginning at 3.00?

James: No (smiling)

Renee: How about I buy you lunch to switch? James: Nope

Renee: Come on James. There is no real reason why you need the large room. I really do.

James: I reserved it. I keep it.

Renee: You're just being obstinate. Why do you always have to be this way?

James: (Still smiling) I'm just that good. Renee: Fine. Have a nice call.