An open working environment means that employees are not afraid to speak out, issues are discussed openly and some conflicts are also addressed publicly. If any conflict arises at the workplace, the worst mistake management and the HR department can make is to ignore it and just let employees sort it out amongst themselves. Often many more people will be affected by the conflict than only those directly involved. Here we offer four reasons why such conflicts should be discussed and dealt with publicly so that the solution really does clear the air to the benefit of everyone.