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Employee/Employer Conflict Resolution

Last Updated: February 7, 2025 6:41:53 AM PST
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Navigating workplace challenges is a valuable skill—this page provides guidance and resources to help student employees and their People Leaders resolve conflicts constructively and maintain a positive work environment.

SEO encourages departments to approach student employment as a student development program with the student's long-term success in mind. As a result, SEO recommends departments discuss conflicts in the workplace with their student employee following the guidelines below: Speak with the student employee about the issue to try and understand what is going on with the student, Advise the student on the department policy or job description if applicable, Recommend steps the student can take to improve or refer the student to the appropriate office for support (CAPS, Advising, etc.), Follow up with the student employee and provide feedback since the initial discussion, Document all interactions regarding the issue and/or performance.

 

Conflict Resolution Guidelines for Student Employee People Leaders: 

  1. Address Issues Promptly: Respond to conflicts early to prevent escalation, ensuring a calm and professional approach.
  2. Encourage Open Communication: Foster an environment where all parties feel comfortable sharing their perspectives respectfully.
  3. Focus on Solutions: Shift the conversation toward collaborative problem-solving and identify actionable steps to resolve the issue.
  4. Maintain Confidentiality: Protect the privacy of all involved parties throughout the process.
  5. Document and Follow Up: Record the conflict resolution steps and outcomes, and follow up to ensure long-term resolution.
  6. Leverage Campus Resources: Consult with the SEO Team for further guidance and support, if needed.

Want More Best Practices?

Department HR Contacts and People Leaders can access more student employment guidance and best practices via the Student Employee Supervisor & Human Resources Handbook.

Access Handbook

Have Questions or Need Help?

  • If you have questions about student employment, please reach out to your department HR Contact. 

  • For additional assistance, please email the Student Employment Office.