I surveyed the room. No one on the team, not Alicia, the Division Manager, nor Russ or Corey, her project leaders, was making eye contact.

“The purpose of the meeting today, is to discuss the conflict between Russ and Corey and determine what is going to change to get the project back on track,” I continued. Alicia finally looked over. The blood was draining from her face.

“One ground rule in this discussion,” I continued. “I am going to ask some questions. When you respond, you may only speak for yourself.”

There were a couple of blank looks as I focused my attention, now, on the team members. I started with Joe, who was in charge of heavy equipment scheduling and logistics. “Joe, do you ever observe conflicting directions from Russ and Corey?”

Joe hesitated, but nodded his head affirmative.

“Speak only for yourself, Joe. What impact does it have on your work, when you observe these conflicts?”

Joe was a bit relieved at the question. He was afraid I was going to ask him to take sides. “Sometimes, it’s confusing,” he began. “I get started on one thing and I have to stop. I supervise a crew of drivers who move the heavy stuff in place. When I have them start and stop, I immediately know there is a problem with the leadership.” -TF