A consultant who specializes in resolving workplace conflicts says the No. 1 reason people leave jobs is because of a poor relationship with their immediate supervisor. Yet another consultant reports that workplace conflicts can consume more than 40 percent of a typical manager's time. Why can't we get along at work?

Q After my manager resigned, I began reporting directly to the vice president of our department. For the past few months, she has praised my outstanding performance and frequently asked for my advice. She also included me in her weekly staff meetings. A few weeks ago, the vice president hired a new manager who is likely to become my boss. She is now consulting him instead of me.

Who hasn't appreciated the convenience of picking up a prescription antibiotic at 10 p.m. or calling tech support late at night when your computer freezes? As our lives have become more chaotic, most of us have grown used to 24/7 convenience and having our emergencies handled at all hours.