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I have two employees – both guys – who report to me and they constantly bicker and argue over just about everything. Their conduct is starting to affect office morale. What should I do?
You’ve probably noticed their quarrelsome behavior for some time but have yet to correct it. You need to take immediate steps to improve the situation or these employees almost certainly will poison the office culture.
I would suggest that one of these men is the “ringleader,” that is, he starts most of the arguments and creates the majority of the disagreements that you and you your colleagues are witnessing.
It is highly likely that much of the acrimony between these two originates with one or two unresolved matters that may have taken place some time ago.
So, in a sense, their actions should perhaps be considered as symbols for something much deeper: matters related to compensation, workloads, reprimands, promotions, relationships, working conditions and accountabilities are possible examples.
At the earliest opportunity, arrange to meet with both men, independently, in your office. You should begin with the “ringleader” (assuming you have been able to identify him).
