"In this case study, you will" analyze a scenario involving workplace conflict and apply principles of organizational behavior to propose solutions. Your task is to assess the situation, identify the underlying causes of the conflict, and recommend strategies for resolution.

Case Scenario:

You are a manager at a medium-sized marketing firm. Two of your team members, Sarah and John, have been experiencing ongoing conflict for the past few weeks. Sarah is an experienced marketer who prefers to work independently and values attention to detail. John is relatively new to the team but brings fresh ideas and is known for his creativity. However, he tends to be more relaxed about deadlines and procedures.

The conflict between Sarah and John has escalated to the point where it is affecting team morale and productivity. Sarah feels frustrated by what she perceives as John's lack of commitment and professionalism, while John feels stifled by Sarah's micromanagement and resistance to new approaches.

Attempts to resolve the conflict through team meetings and mediation have been unsuccessful, and tensions continue to rise. As their manager, you recognize the need to address the situation effectively before it further impacts the team's performance.

Questions:

1. What are the underlying causes of the conflict between Sarah and John?
2. How might individual differences in personality and work styles contribute to the conflict?
3. What role does communication play in exacerbating or alleviating the conflict?
4. As a manager, what strategies would you employ to facilitate conflict resolution between Sarah and John?
5. How would you foster a more collaborative and inclusive team culture moving forward?