Concept
Choose the conflict route before choosing the words
The safest conversation can start with a routing decision.
When it fits
- You have a workplace problem and are deciding whether to talk directly, involve a manager or use a formal process.
When to avoid it
- This is not legal advice. Employment procedures and protected-reporting routes vary by jurisdiction and organisation.
The idea
Classify the issue before drafting the message. Ask whether the problem is safe and appropriate for informal repair, whether policy requires escalation, whether facts or rights need a formal decision, and whether there is a power or retaliation concern. Choose the route first; then prepare the conversation.
An example
A disagreement over handoff expectations may start informally; an allegation that requires investigation should not be reduced to a 'quick chat.'
Check your result
You can explain why the chosen route fits the seriousness and policy context.
Keep this limit in mind
- This is not legal advice. Employment procedures and protected-reporting routes vary by jurisdiction and organisation.
Connected ideas
Use beforePrepare the facts, impact and desired change before the meeting
Evidence and sources
Acas guidance says workplace problems can often be raised informally first, while unresolved or sufficiently serious issues may require a formal route.
The correct route depends on seriousness, policy, jurisdiction and safety; informal resolution is not a universal first step.
How to raise a problem · How to raise a problem
Acas describes mediation as an impartial, voluntary and confidential process aimed at helping the parties reach their own future-focused solution rather than deciding who was right in the past.
Mediation is not suitable or available for every dispute and is not a substitute for required formal procedures.
What mediation is and how it can help · What mediation is; how mediation can help