Workplace Mediation

Our experienced dispute resolution practitioners and organisational psychologists can help employees in conflict resolve their differences and find ways to improve communication and work together harmoniously.

EXPERTS IN DISPUTE RESOLUTION

Our talented conflict resolution practitioners have a passion for facilitating greater harmony in the workplace. They know how to approach volatile and sensitive matters with compassion and sensitivity, supporting employees and organisations in resolving conflict. Our aim is to make participants feel heard and to gently guide the parties toward a workable plan for interacting and working together successfully.

WHEN IS MEDIATION HELPFUL

Some workplace complaints may not warrant a full investigation. It may be the case that the complaint doesn’t contain enough detail to allow an investigation, or the allegations would not, if substantiated, constitute a breach of organisation policy.

In some cases, a full investigation may have been conducted, and it is found that both parties have contributed equally to the breakdown in the working relationship. This is when mediation could be considered as a way to bring the parties together to help them iron out their differences.

Mediation should only be considered where there are no substantiated instances of misconduct such as workplace bullying or harassment, and when both parties feel safe to participate.

HOW DOES MEDIATION WORK?

Our expert mediators will formulate a mediation and coaching plan tailored to each unique situation. In most cases, this will involve initial one on one conversations with both parties to determine whether they are able to participate in the process effectively. In some cases, these initial meetings might reveal that individual coaching sessions may be required beforehand to address communication styles or other roadblocks to successful mediation.

If mediation is to follow a formal investigation, our mediator might read the investigation report before meeting with the parties so as to understand the facts and background of the dispute. When the parties are ready to mediate, a session will be arranged. Mediation can take several hours and several sessions may be required. The aim of the mediator is to work with the parties in formulating a plan for how they will work together effectively and harmoniously moving forward.

CAN I MAKE MY EMPLOYEES MEDIATE?

You cannot force employees to mediate. Mediation can only work when both parties are committed to resolving their differences. If one or both parties are attending mediation under duress, it is unlikely that the mediation will be successful.

If your employees are refusing to mediate, you could try asking why they don’t want participate. It may be that you can alleviate some of their concerns.

You might suggest that they at least attend the pre-mediation one-on-one sessions with the mediator before making a decision not to mediate. The mediator may be able to assist the employee to trust the process more by explaining how the session will be run and addressing some of their concerns.

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER MEDIATION?

The steps taken after a mediation can be just as important as the mediation itself. As an employer, it’s important to consider the following, post mediation:

What supports can be put in place to assist the parties to stick to their agreement?
Would further one on one coaching be useful in helping the parties to improve their communication skills or other behaviours that may contribute to further conflict?
Have both parties accepted responsibility for their part in the conflict?
Am I monitoring the parties for any signs of the conflict re-occurring?

Do I have a plan for checking in with the parties individually about how they are feeling?

HOW TO GET STARTED

If you’re unsure about whether mediation is the best option, we are available for a free confidential consultation to assess your matter and provide advice on the best way forward.

If you’ve decided to engage an independent mediator, please give us a call today to discuss your matter and get an obligation-free cost estimate. We are available to start at short notice if necessary.