A team leader undermines another leader in front of the team. How do you regain control and restore order?

1 Address Privately

Once an undermining incident occurs, it's essential to address it privately with the involved leaders. This private setting allows for an open, candid conversation without the added pressure of an audience. Discuss the incident's impact on the team's dynamics and the importance of presenting a united front. Emphasize the value of mutual respect and the need for leaders to support each other to maintain team cohesion. This step is about re-establishing professional boundaries and setting the stage for a public resolution.

2 Realign Goals

After the private discussion, redirect the focus towards the team's collective goals . Remind both leaders of the shared objectives that require their cooperation and leadership. By reiterating the vision and mission that the team is working towards, you can help realign their priorities. This step is crucial in shifting the narrative from personal conflict to collaborative success, which can help repair any rifts caused by the undermining behavior.

3 Public Acknowledgment

A public acknowledgment of the situation can be a powerful way to restore trust within the team. Encourage the leader who undermined their colleague to acknowledge their mistake in front of the team. This act of vulnerability and accountability can help to heal divisions and demonstrate a commitment to transparency and respect. It's important that this is done in a way that fosters understanding and does not further embarrass any party involved.

4 Reinforce Culture

With acknowledgment made, take the opportunity to reinforce the team's culture and values . Highlight the importance of support, respect, and constructive communication as cornerstones of your team's ethos. Use this moment to remind everyone that while disagreements may occur, they should always be handled professionally and with the team's best interest at heart. This reinforcement serves as a reminder of the behavioral standards expected from everyone, including leaders.

5 Empower Collaboration

Moving forward, create opportunities for the leaders to collaborate on projects or initiatives that benefit the team. By working together towards a common goal, they can rebuild their professional relationship and set a positive example for their team members. This step is not only about repairing a working relationship but also about strengthening the team's ability to function effectively despite setbacks.

6 Monitor Progress

Finally, keep a close eye on the dynamics between the two leaders and the team as a whole. Regular check-ins can help ensure that the resolution is holding and that the team is moving past the incident. Monitoring progress also allows you to intervene early if old patterns resurface , ensuring that the harmony and productivity of your team remain intact.