Employer - Employee Relationship Problems

By Aaron Brown - HR Executive Cross Group Services Ltd

Problems can sometimes occur in the workplace, and usually the best way to deal with them is to apply a common sense approach. The sooner an issue is dealt with the better and the best way to achieve this is to follow a well documented process.

Employers need to have good processes and procedures in place for dealing with issues and should make sure that employees are aware of them and everyone in the workplace should understand what is expected of them in the event of an employment dispute.

If there’s a problem, it’s important to:

1. have a clear idea of the issues, check the facts 
2. make sure that both sides have the time and opportunity to take advice and think through the issues. 

Taking advice at the earliest opportunity helps ensure both sides are fully aware of their options in the circumstances.

Every employment agreement must contain a clear explanation of the processes for resolving problems. This explanation should be written very clearly, so everyone knows what processes they are required to follow, what their rights are and what happens when a problem is raised.

It is important that all parties, in good faith, try to resolve any problems directly. Some may be able to settle their differences quickly through a mediator with less formal support and cost than a formal process.

There are some problems at work that can also have health and safety implications, particularly where these problems may involve stress, fatigue, bullying or workplace violence.

Whatever the issue or the problem that has been raised it is vitally important to be proactive and reach a resolution for the benefit of both the employee and the employer aka win win.

So check your procedures manual and employment agreements today as an hour spent today may save a lot of time and money further down the track.