Human Resources
Conflict Management
Spotlight Resources:
- Certification Path: Harnessing Conflict Certification Path
- AI for Supervisors: Addressing Conflict in Your Team
- AI for Individual Contributors: Setting Professional Boundaries with Peers
What is Conflict?
Conflict arises from differing opinions and is a natural part of the workplace. When managed effectively, it can lead to better decisions and stronger relationships. Most conflict can be resolved directly by the individuals involved, without the need for intervention.
Tools
Resources
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Central Learning Academy Online (online books, courses, and videos)
- WA State Department of Enterprise Services (DES) Training
Do You Need to Involve Others?
-
Have you tried to resolve the conflict on your own and still need help?
The next step is to involve your supervisor. Your supervisor may be able to help facilitate the conversation. Your supervisor can help you identify the source of the conflict, determine possible solutions and adhere to agreed-upon next steps.
-
What if the conflict is between me and my supervisor?
CWU’s Employee Assistance Program offers confidential counseling and guidance for handling conflict. Visit the EAP webpage to learn more.
Human Resources Partners are also available to meet with you to discuss appropriate next steps if you are have unresolved conflict with your supervisor. Contact (509) 963-1202 to be connected with an HR Partner.
-
What if one of the people involved is a union member?
If one of the staff involved is in a CWU union represented by a union, you may need to involve Labor Relations and/or a union representative:
-
What if I feel that I am being discriminated against?
If you believe you or someone else is being discriminated against, please contact Civil Rights Compliance directly or use the Concern and Support Form to report discrimination.
-
What if the situation involves faculty performance or misconduct?
Please contact Faculty Relations.
-
What if the situation involves student misconduct, academic, and/or personal issues?
Please contact Student Success.
-
What if I need to hire an outside mediator?
For conflicts that require more in-depth mediation, HR has a standing contract with Philip Mediation. To initiate the process, connect with an HR Partner, (509) 963-1202.
-
What if the situation involves a potential conflict of interest?
If you suspect the situation involves a potential conflict of interest, reach out to the CWU Internal Auditor.
-
What if the conflict involves a potential ethics violation?
If you suspect the situation involves a potential ethics violation, reach out to CWU's Ethics Advisor or the Washington State Executive Ethics Board.
CWU News
Summer CSA program provides fresh food, fresh opportunities to CWU community
September 9, 2026 by Tran Nha Pham
CWU professor elected to serve on ethics organization board
September 9, 2026 by David Leder