While all conflict management systems should be constructed specifically for your business and its corporate culture, there are certain characteristics contained in most systems.
Specifically tailored to the company and its unique products, services, personalities, culture, location, and industry.
Early participation encouraged at all levels of the company, labor and management, by being user-friendly, simple and comfortable.
Trust established by the use of an outside entity to investigate and participate in resolving the conflict, so that candid communication can occur without fear of reprisals. Preservation of confidentiality may be very difficult in a small company, and in order for the system to be effective, the employee must feel free to express his or her concerns openly and honestly. A poorly administered system can be worse than no system at all.
Issues considered fully even if it initially appears that the complaint might be without merit. Often the real source of destructive conflict is different from the behavior which prompted the original complaint.
Respect for all participants and a fair and prompt resolution are crucial to the success of any conflict management system.
A Model Conflict Management System
While all conflict management systems should be constructed specifically for your business and its corporate culture, there are certain characteristics contained in most systems.