Two team members have professional differences that have reduced their performance. They refuse to talk to resolve the issue despite the project manager's insistence. Which conflict resolution technique should the project manager use next?

Smoothing involves de-emphasizing differences and highlighting areas of agreement. In this scenario, the project manager has already insisted on resolution, and the team members are resistant. Smoothing can be a temporary measure to reduce tension and allow the team to focus on project work, buying time for a more permanent solution. Compromising involves each party giving up something to reach a solution, which requires willingness from both sides that is currently absent. Negotiating is a formal process of discussion to reach an agreement, which is unlikely to succeed if the team members refuse to talk. Forcing involves pushing one's viewpoint at the expense of others, which would likely escalate the conflict rather than resolve it, especially given the team members' current resistance.