How Ignoring Workplace Tension Led to a Crisis—and What We Did to Turn It Around

I once worked with a client who had an outstanding team—smart, driven, and committed. But beneath the surface, an underlying issue was building. Small tensions between departments were dismissed as "normal," and frustrations were brushed off as part of office life. What no one saw coming was how these simmering issues would eventually boil over.

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Then, one morning, the storm hit.

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A conflict that had been quietly escalating exploded during a meeting. What started as a heated exchange quickly escalated into personal attacks and threats. Thankfully, no one was physically harmed, but the damage to the team’s morale and productivity was immediate. The company realized too late that they had ignored warning signs until it was almost too late.

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This is more common than most organizations realize. Workplace violence does not happen overnight—it is the result of unresolved conflicts, poor communication, and a lack of support systems. While you cannot always prevent every issue, you can take initiative-taking steps to address risks before they snowball into crises.

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Here is how we helped this client turn things around:

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1. Early Intervention

?We implemented a conflict resolution training program for all employees. This training taught them how to identify early signs of tension and provided the tools to de-escalate issues before they grew into something more serious.

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2. Clear Channels for Communication

?We established confidential reporting systems, encouraging employees to speak up about concerns—whether personal or professional—without fear of retaliation. Giving employees a safe space to voice their concerns can be the difference between early intervention and a full-blown crisis.

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3. Ongoing Support

?Through leadership coaching and peer mediation, we helped the team foster stronger communication and healthier working relationships. These tools helped prevent future conflicts from escalating and created a more cohesive work environment.

The Result? Within months, the team was collaborating more effectively, and the workplace culture shifted toward greater respect, trust, and accountability.?

The Takeaway? Workplace violence often begins with ignored or unaddressed small issues. By taking proactive steps—whether it is through training, communication, or ongoing support—you can prevent a crisis before it starts. It is never too early to start building a culture of prevention and safety.

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Is your organization ready to take proactive steps to prevent workplace violence?

Reach out today to learn how we can help create a safer, more productive work environment for your team.

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About the Author

Joseph Paul Manley, a retired Massachusetts Police Lieutenant and a Board-Certified Workplace Violence and Threat Specialist (WVTS), is the Founder and Principal of Risk Mitigation Technologies, LLC. His firm empowers organizations with personalized security solutions to prevent workplace violence before it escalates, enhancing safety, minimizing risk and protecting against potential liabilities.

Certified in Emergency Crisis Response, De-escalation Instruction, and Crisis Intervention, Paul also serves as an Adjunct Lecturer. He brings a comprehensive approach to crisis management, with a particular focus on workplace violence prevention. Paul is the author of the book “How to Stay Calm and Aware in Any Situation: A Practical Guide to Situational Awareness and De-escalation Strategies,” a resource that draws from his real-life experience in crisis management, situational awareness and conflict de-escalation strategies.

Paul is an active member of the International Association of Professional Security Consultants, contributing to the Membership Committee.