Which statement is NOT one of the three golden rules for mitigating workplace conflict?

Which statement is NOT one of the three golden rules for mitigating workplace conflict?

• A. Make decisions without involving others.
• B. Assume and operate with best intent.
• C. Speak to each other not about each other.
• D. Extend grace.

Answer: (A)

Mitigating workplace conflict relies on collaboration and respectful communication. The three guiding practices are to assume and operate with best intent, speak directly to the person involved rather than about them, and extend grace when needed. Making decisions without involving others runs directly counter to these principles because it excludes teammates, which breeds mistrust and miscommunication and often fuels tension rather than resolving it. Involving others in decisions promotes transparency, buy-in, and shared responsibility, which helps prevent conflict from arising in the first place. The other behaviors support constructive, direct, and compassionate interactions that de-escalate disagreements, whereas unilateral decision-making tends to create more room for resentment and conflict.

Mitigating workplace conflict relies on collaboration and respectful communication. The three guiding practices are to assume and operate with best intent, speak directly to the person involved rather than about them, and extend grace when needed. Making decisions without involving others runs directly counter to these principles because it excludes teammates, which breeds mistrust and miscommunication and often fuels tension rather than resolving it. Involving others in decisions promotes transparency, buy-in, and shared responsibility, which helps prevent conflict from arising in the first place. The other behaviors support constructive, direct, and compassionate interactions that de-escalate disagreements, whereas unilateral decision-making tends to create more room for resentment and conflict.