Which of the following is a recommended strategy to reduce employee or trainee conflict?

Enhancing communication channels is a highly effective strategy for reducing employee or trainee conflict. When communication is clear, open, and consistent, it allows individuals to express their concerns, share information, and align their goals more easily. Good communication fosters an environment of trust and collaboration, which minimizes misunderstandings and increases the likelihood of resolving conflicts amicably.

In contrast, encouraging competition can lead to rivalry that exacerbates conflict among employees rather than mitigating it. Unclear office goals create ambiguity, which can lead to frustration and disputes as employees may have different interpretations of what is expected. Providing preferential treatment to senior staff can breed resentment among junior employees, leading to conflicts and a decrease in team cohesion and morale. Therefore, enhancing communication channels stands out as the most constructive approach to conflict reduction within a workplace.