What is the best course of action for a manager when two employees have a conflict over TV channel preferences?

Encouraging the employees to solve the conflict on their own fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility in resolving interpersonal issues. This approach empowers the employees to communicate and negotiate directly with each other, which can lead to improved teamwork and collaboration in the long run. By allowing them to discuss their preferences, they might find a compromise that respects both individuals' needs. This practice not only helps to resolve the immediate conflict but also develops their conflict resolution skills, making them more equipped to handle similar situations in the future.

Other options, while they may seem practical, do not encourage the employees to engage in direct communication or collaboration. For example, limiting TV time or switching to streaming doesn't address the core issue of their conflict and could lead to further dissatisfaction. Providing an alternate entertainment option might divert the issue temporarily, but it does not encourage problem-solving or understanding between the employees. Therefore, encouraging self-resolution is the most constructive approach in this scenario.