Resolving Workplace Disputes
by Secretary of the Treasury, U.S.
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MEMORANDUM FOR ALL TREASURY EMPLOYEES
As Secretary of the Treasury, I am committed to a workplace where all employees are treated with dignity and respect. Our workplace should reflect an environment where we are honest and responsible in our dealings with one another. However, I am aware that in every workplace, disputes do occur. And when they do I am equally committed to resolving these disputes as early as possible, in an appropriate and cost effective manner, and at the lowest organizational level possible. Resolving complaints expeditiously contributes significantly to our goal of maintaining an environment that fosters communication and involvement.
Many disputes that arise in the workplace are the result of a lack of communication, understanding and respect. Our statistics show that many Equal Employment Opportunity complaints involve issues of reprisal and/or harassment. Historically, these complaints result in days lost to stress and illness as well as time dedicated to the preparation and processing of cases.
I am a proponent of alternate dispute resolution (ADR) programs and am pleased that ADR programs are successfully operating throughout the Department. ADR techniques, particularly mediation, assist parties in finding creative, mutually acceptable and early resolution of disputes. Managers and employees working together to solve problems leads to improved long-term relationships and better work products. In addition, I believe that these techniques can be used as a management tool to prevent conflict from escalating into more serious disputes. ADR promotes principles and practices of trust that facilitate communication and healthy working relationships.
By working together to resolve workplace disputes, we will continue to build a world class organization. I know I can count on each of you in this effort.
Comments
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| Patricia ,
Auckland |
02/19/09 |
| English in the workplace |
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How can it be possible to communicate with co-workers when they speak in a foreign language in the presence of English speaking staff.I find it direspectful and rude. |
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| Cindy ,
Sacramento ca |
11/21/08 |
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There was a question as to whether or not it is appropriate to use a foreign language in the presence of English-Only speaking people in the breakroom of a workplace. Was that question answered or commented on? Additionally, I'd like to extend the scenerio to while in the performance of their duties. |
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| Verinda ,
Randallstown MD |
08/20/05 |
| when was this article written? |
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I am doing some research for a paper. When was this article written? |
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| Beverly ,
E.Windsor Nj |
12/10/02 |
| Use of foreign language in the workplace |
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Is it appropropriate to use a foreign language in the presence of English -Only speaking people in the breakroom of a workplace? |
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