Read Case Studies C and D and engage in a discussion where you identify potential causes of the workplace conflicts.

During the discussion, you must:

• Identify possible causes of conflict
• Suggest ways of improving and enhancing real or simulated workplace practices to prevent future conflict.

Case Study C

In your department, there are two members of staff. They have the same job role and the same level of responsibility. The first staff member is 22 years of age and has worked in the department for two years. The second staff member is 55 and has worked in the department for six years.

The following conflict has occurred:

• The first staff member completed a job in a certain way
• The way that they chose was effective and did not breach organizational procedures
• The second staff member told them that their method is not the most efficient
• They outlined another way for the first staff member to complete the task next time
• The first staff member is annoyed and claims that the second staff member frequently interferes
• The first staff member feels that they cannot do anything right
• The second staff member feels that they were trying to be supportive
• Both staff members begin to argue.

Case Study D

In your department, a clique has formed. The supervisors bring drinks for each other each morning and sit together during breaks and lunchtime.

They have not said that others can't join them. However, when non-supervisors have tried to join them, they have felt out of place and awkward.

The following conflict has occurred.

• Three staff members have expressed that they feel it is unfair that their supervisors take turns to purchase each other drinks but don't include anyone else
• One staff member has claimed that they felt awkward when they were present when the drinks were ordered and they were excluded
• The supervisors feel that they have not behaved inappropriately
• The supervisors feel that they happen to be friendly with each other and that other staff are welcome to arrange to order their own drinks.