4 Workplace Issues HR Wants You To Handle On Your Own

When you have a conflict with a coworker or your manager, it can be tempting to go to human resources with your problems. However, HR experts agree that this approach may only escalate the situation and not solve the problem.

Here are four workplace issues human resource managers would prefer employees to handle on their own—along with tips on how to do it.

Conflicts with other coworkers

Working with other people isn’t always easy—your coworker might challenge your ideas in meetings or engage in gossip or not pull his or her weight on projects. Regardless, HR experts agree that the best way to handle this is to talk with your colleague directly. “Ask questions as to why they may be acting the way they are,” says Jane Lowenstein, a partner at JanBara & Associates, a leadership development company. “Explain how their behavior lands on you, and discuss the impact of their behavior on you and the work team. It may be uncomfortable to begin this discussion, but if you present how the situation impacts you as opposed to criticizing the other person, you may have great success in resolving the trouble.”

Before speaking with your colleague, gather three specific examples of what's bothering you to help better explain the impact on your work, suggests Nancy Halpern, principal at KNH Associates, a firm that provides leadership development and communications coaching.

If talking directly with your colleague doesn’t help, Lowenstein suggests bring the situation to your boss. The key, she says, is to describe the situation in the rational, objective manner. Demonstrate to your boss that you tried to solve the problem on your own, says Meghann Isgan, human resources manager at One Click Ventures, because this shows your ability to act maturely and professionally. “Remember, you don't have to invite your coworkers to your birthday party, you just have to effectively work together to accomplish the goals of the company," she says.

However, do go directly to HR if your concerns are related to harassment or if the issue is in direct conflict with a written HR office policy, says Alina Basina, global head of talent and human resources at Jobbatical.

by Lisa Rabasca Roepe ,