Correct Response: C. Treating people fairly is a necessary leadership skill. A leader cannot be perceived as favoring some employees over others. When a manager must mediate a conflict between employees, it is essential that the manager be seen as fair and impartial so individuals are comfortable expressing their views and feel that any outcomes will be just. Giving the impression that a quick resolution is not desirable communicates a lack of seriousness in solving the problem (A). Allowing conflicting members to set the ground rules risks creating more conflict (B). The role of the mediator is to facilitate communication among the parties involved. If participants feel the leader will impose a solution, they will be less motivated to solve the problem themselves (D), and any imposed solution may turn out to be temporary.
