Here’s a surprising fact to write home about: 73% of Americans dislike at least one of their neighbors, and 23% of Americans have even called the police on them.
That means there’s essentially a 3 out of 4 chance today’s employees are dealing with a less than diplomatic situation with a neighbor. And the reasons why can vary – from conflicting lifestyles and cultural differences to simple misunderstandings and everyday annoyances. It all could add to their stress and cut into their focus and productivity when they log on or come into work each day.
Love thy neighbor – maybe not so much?
If people these days seem to be less “love thy neighbor” and more about “I’ll see you in court,” there may be several factors that are contributing to this disturbing – and potentially growing – trend:
- More people are working from home. About 1 in 5 American workers are working from home, which opens the door to frequent (and potentially contentious) interactions with neighbors.
- Less people are moving. Surging home prices and mortgage rates, along with high inflation, have people staying put in their current homes – which may mean they have no choice but to put up with annoying neighbors for the immediate future.
- The country is increasingly divided. Statistics show that political views have grown increasingly polarized on many social issues over the past 20 years, which may mean added friction and misunderstandings when talking over the fence.
The benefit of having legal protection
Whether employees are dealing with a neighbor who won’t trim a large branch that hangs over their property or someone next door who has loud, late-night parties, an attorney can provide them with professional legal counsel. This includes informing them of what their rights are, knowledge of state and local laws and what legal recourse they may have. They can also represent your employees, even in court, if necessary.
So as you review benefit options for employees next year, consider how a legal insurance plan can offer them a place to turn for accessible, affordable legal help if they run into a problem with their neighbor.
What can be done to mend fences
Here are 5 tips to offer employees who face an issue with their neighbor to help work toward a resolution – or prevent a situation from escalating:
- Try diplomacy. Say hello and offer a smile. It can be surprising how a positive approach to the situation can help deescalate any rising tension or erase a misunderstanding.
- Overlook the little things. Take a moment or two to consider if their neighbor’s actions are truly affecting their quality of life, or just a quirk they can live with. If it’s still an issue for them, it’s time to address the matter.
- Have a conversation, not a confrontation. Look for an opportunity to discuss the matter on neutral ground, so to speak. A thoughtfully worded text or email may be less intrusive. Let the neighbor know how their behavior is affecting others – but also be sure to listen to their side of the story.
- Try negotiation. If no headway is being made, they should consider asking a neutral third party to sit down with both parties to help figure out a fair solution – or compromise – to the problem.
- Take legal action. Going to court is usually considered a last resort. But they may need to take legal action against their neighbor if it’s possible they violated any laws or there are concerns about personal safety or the protection of property.
