Conflict Identification

Correct Answer: Schedule individual meetings with each team member to understand their perspectives

The most appropriate initial action for a project manager in this scenario is to schedule individual meetings with each team member to understand their perspectives. This approach is the best because:

1. It allows the project manager to gather information directly from each team member involved in the conflict.
2. It provides a calm, private setting for each individual to express their viewpoint fully.
3. It demonstrates that the project manager is actively listening and values each team member's input.
4. It helps the project manager to identify the root cause of the disagreement and potential misunderstandings.
5. It enables the project manager to formulate a more informed strategy for resolving the conflict.

The other options are less appropriate as initial actions:

Implementing a formal conflict resolution process is premature at this stage and may escalate the situation unnecessarily.

Assigning a neutral third party from within the team could potentially create additional tension or bias, and it's the project manager's responsibility to address such issues directly.

Documenting and escalating the issue to senior management should only be considered after attempting to resolve the conflict at the project level, as it may undermine the project manager's authority and team dynamics.

By starting with individual meetings, the project manager can gather all necessary information and then decide on the most appropriate next steps to resolve the conflict and clarify the project requirements.

Correct Answer: Recognizing non-verbal cues of conflict

Avoiding eye contact and displaying closed body language are non-verbal cues that may indicate conflict between team members. Recognizing these non-verbal signals is important in identifying potential conflicts.

Correct Answer: Privately meet with both team members to understand their perspectives.

The most appropriate initial action is to privately meet with both team members to understand their perspectives. This allows the project manager to directly assess whether there is a conflict and uncover any underlying issues causing the tension. Handling the situation privately respects the individuals involved and helps prevent further escalation. Addressing the issue publicly could embarrass the team members and exacerbate the problem. Involving human resources is premature at this stage, and reassigning responsibilities avoids addressing the root cause of the conflict.