Navigating a work conflict between two coworkers

Post date: 2025-02-19 12:53:48

I have two coworkers - let's call them Tonya and Beth. Tonya has more tenure and Beth is newer to the team. I get along well with both. From the beginning, Beth came in with some pre-conceived notion about Tonya so she was a little closed off to her, which made Tonya not particularly fond of Beth.

Beth turned out to be a slow learner and she needed a lot of directions and helps. I have complained about her to Tonya which Tonya agreed. We both often gossiped about Beth behind her back, which I know was not great. We both eventually talked to our boss about a few issues with Beth but our boss left the organization before having a chance to address the issue.

My comments about Beth have always been work related and I have not brought those feedback to her and have continued to treat her nicely. Tonya on the other hand has been more critical and she is not afraid to voice it. Beth then confided in me that she feels Tonya tends to talk down on her. Making her feel like she's not important or stupid. I agree that Tonya's approach of giving feedback was a little harsh but I also understand where she's coming from as well.

The tricky part to all of this is that I feel like they think I'm on their side even though I've tried to distance myself from the gossip and tried to stay neutral when they vent to me.

Beth recently came to our new boss about Tonya and she plans to confront Tonya in person about her attitude towards Beth.

I want some advice on how to navigate this situation. Should I try to talk to them? Should I try to give Tonya a heads up that Beth will try to talk to her? Do I try to stay out of it completely

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