Following a recent mediation at a national PLC, an employee’s feedback was as follows:
“I would just like to thank the Mediator for helping to sort out a long running problem I had been experiencing with x. I was sceptical initially but somehow the mediator was able to get us talking again and my working life has improved considerably now.”
The employer is also happy because the employee was threatening to resign and there was a lot of ill feeling in the office which was disrupting the business.
People who spend a lot of time working together are likely to encounter interpersonal conflicts from time to time. Relationships can be pushed to the limit through personality clashes, diverse values, and different expectations of each other. If unresolved, workplace issues can result in: increased employee stress; lower productivity; formal grievances; reduced motivation; deterioration of working relationships; higher sickness and absence levels, or potentially resignations.
What is workplace mediation?
Workplace mediation is a form of dispute resolution involving an impartial mediator and those employees who are in conflict. The aim of mediation is to repair and restore people’s working relationships. The step-by-step process is structured, and is guided by an impartial mediator who listens to the issues, and helps people to communicate with one another. Mediation is entirely voluntary and confidential, and can often secure a swift solution. There are normally separate meetings and then a joint session if appropriate, which can be completed in one day. In the safe environment, conflict is managed constructively so that issues are clarified, options are created, and people are encouraged to think more creatively about solutions to the issues experienced. The ACAS Code of Practice encourages the greater use of mediation for resolving workplace disputes.
How do employees benefit from mediation?
Employees take a lot from mediation, including:
- Agreements
- Understanding how future relationships can be improved
- If future problems arise, they can exercise better communication
- Clarification surrounding misunderstandings
- Less stress, more confidence
How do employers benefit from mediation?
Workplace mediation will save you time and money because:
- Working relationships are preserved and often improved
- Distraction, expense and time spent on formal action is avoided
- Financial impact on the business is minimised
- Retention of staff who otherwise may have resigned
What situations warrant mediation?
Mediation can be used for a range of circumstances which are proving to be problematic for employees and, in turn, employers. Personality clashes, grievance processes and communication problems are common reasons for mediators to get involved.
Introducing ProMediate
ProMediate has a team of skilled mediators who are available to assist with any workplace conflict you or your organisation may be experiencing. By using our service you can swiftly and economically help your business to resolve costly and time consuming disputes between employees. If you have any questions or would like to enquire about our services please contact us at enquiries@promediate.co.uk