Conflict can disrupt work productivity and affect team dynamics. Workplace mediation is a proven tool to help people move past their tensions and achieve results.
Mediation is a voluntary, collaborative, problem-solving process. A third party seen to be fair and balanced by all parties assists in clearly defining and understanding the events and concerns which have contributed to the tensions. The mediator helps the parties reach outcomes that are acceptable to everyone involved in the conflict.
Our clients have found workplace mediation helpful in many different contexts:
- Conflicted peer relationships
- Manager/employee tensions
- Return to work processes
- Grievance processes
- Terms of end of employment
About the FS Workplace Mediation Process:
Preparation
Pre-mediation assessment interviews and coaching are part of setting the stage for a successful facilitated conversation. Individual interviews (typically between one hour and 90 minutes) prepare both the mediators and the participants for the joint facilitated conversation.
Looking Back
Typically, the first component of the facilitated process focuses on the past, including what has contributed to the tensions in the relationship and the current context of difficulties. Building understanding between the parties in conflict is the main goal of the first joint session/s.
Looking Ahead
The final joint conversation/s looks to the future. Clarity around what each party needs and what each party can offer the other becomes the foundation for a Memorandum of Understanding that is drafted by the mediators after the final session.
Support for the System
A final report overviewing the mediators’ observations/assessment (aimed at helping leadership support the parties) is also provided at the close of our involvement.
Partnership with Leaders
Ongoing consultation with leadership is critical to the success and sustainability of the outcome of this process. The facilitators will brief/consult with leadership on an ongoing basis throughout the process.