Carol mediates a dispute between Sanjay and Casey, who has a pet at work. Sanjay is aggressive while Casey is non-assertive. Carol finds the middle ground but later Sanjay argues with Mana and reveals his hand in the disappearance of Casey’s pet. Sanjay has time to rethink his intimidating ways and offers Casey a stuffed ‘pet’ as a peace offering in Marcus’ team building session.

Carol is attempting to mediate a dispute between Sanjay and Casey. Casey believes she is within her rights to have a pet in the office, but Sanjay finds it disgusting and wants it disallowed. They argue about working styles. Sanjay is direct and aggressive while Casey remains passive and non-assertive. Carol finds a middle ground that the two can agree upon. Later, Sanjay and Mana are arguing about a misplaced piece of work. The conversation ends uncomfortably with Sanjay ordering Mana not to tell Casey about what he did to her pet. Later, in a meeting, Marcus asks for team-building contributions. Sanjay has had time to rethink his intimidating ways and offers a stuffed ‘pet’ as a peace offering to Casey. 

  Key Learning Points

“Too much energy is wasted on wars at work. Peace and harmony is good for health and well being.”

BUILD A COOPERATIVE TEAM

Don’tbe aggressive
INSTEAD: Communicate with care

Don’t exclude someone
INSTEAD: Make others feel special

Don’tlet conflicts grow
INSTEAD: Discuss and resolve issues

Don’tbe afraid to speak up
INSTEAD: Speak assertively