No reason boss can’t stop workers’ bickering

Q: I recently began supervising a group of five women who all seem to hate each other. Although I have heard other managers complain about overseeing such a group, I have never encountered it before. I had a discussion with the group’s primary troublemakers, but so far there has been no improvement. How am I supposed to handle this drama?

A: If the juvenile bickering stems from job-related issues, then you must help your group resolve them. But if this hostility seems personal, then it’s time to establish some non-negotiable expectations. Here’s one way to kick off that discussion:

“Unfortunately, I have serious concerns about this group. Although you have the potential to be a successful, right now there is a lot of squabbling. I’m going to explain what needs to change, then you must decide whether you can meet those expectations.

“First, let me emphasize that co-workers don’t have to like each other. Since you don’t get to choose your coworkers, you probably won’t like all of them.

“Specifically, you are expected to be consistently pleasant, helpful and cooperative with one another. Those are the three words to remember: pleasant, helpful and cooperative.

“As a group, we need to create a more mature, professional office environment. I will be talking with each of you privately because that will be a requirement for continuing to work here.”

Changing the culture of your combative team will require follow-through and persistence. But if you recognize those who comply, correct those who resist and get rid of anyone who refuses to change, the drama will eventually disappear.