Workplace Mediation
Are you looking to resolve conflicts in the workplace? Our mediation services could be the answer.
What is workplace mediation?
When implemented correctly, Workplace Mediation is a powerful process whereby conflict can be effectively resolved.
Disputes in the workplace kill productivity, often lead to costly grievances and can be a major factor in staff turnover. Business meditation is an extremely powerful tool whenever there is conflict in the workplace, and both parties are open to the idea of working towards a solution. However, the process is confidential, and the signing of a confidentiality agreement is a requirement of all parties entering into the process and allows open and honest communication throughout.
Workplace mediation is not about deciding who is wrong or right, but rather about a quick, effective resolution and developing a way forward that is acceptable to all parties involved in the conflict. It is also seen as an informal process.
It is highly effective in many situations from relatively simple cases to those associated with claims of harassment or bullying. For example, where relationships have broken down it can be used as a tool to help parties re-evaluate the way that they interact with, and perceive each other.
In bullying and harassment situations, external mediators can be particularly useful as their independence from the situation means that managers are not placed in difficult positions, and can remain entirely impartial.
Subject to the correct policies being in place, mediation can be used at any stage of, or before, formal disciplinary or grievance procedures. Should the mediation be unsuccessful, formal processes may be resumed.
What are the benefits of working with a mediation company like Beststart?
Our qualified workplace mediators can resolve issues before they turn into grievances and keep organisations moving forward.
One key advantage of the mediation services we offer is the swift resolution of conflict, with the vast majority of conflicts being resolved within the space of a day, even in instances when the dispute has been long running.
A successful mediation results in a number of points of agreement between the parties, with the aim that if these points are followed, the problem should not reoccur. If problems do resurface, the parties will now have the necessary tools to address issues positively and constructively.
Additional benefits include a reduction in tribunal costs, a reduction in the number of formal grievances raised, promotion of a people development and management culture, and a reduction in sickness absence.
How our mediation process works
We recommend only one type of process for mediation at work, which is tried, tested and trusted. We have a 100% record in delivering a successful outcome through mediation in the following way:
- An initial telephone conversation with the parties to discuss the benefits of mediation.
- One full day’s mediation using a mixture of individual and joint meetings.
- Drawing up and gaining agreement on an action plan to move forwards.
- A follow up call 3-months post-mediation to ensure both parties are still committed to the action plan.
For businesses who are already confident of the effectiveness of mediation, we can also design conflict resolution policies that build mediation into the structure of your organisation, making it the go-to solution and reducing formal procedures.
Who is Workplace Mediation perfect for?
Mediation for organisations
Mediation can be used by organisations of all sizes, from small businesses to corporate institutions, not-for-profit, educational organisations and Limited Liability Partnerships where relationships amongst the team have collapsed.
For businesses who are already confident of the effectiveness of mediation, we can also design conflict resolution policies that build mediation into the structure of your organisation, making it the go-to solution and reducing formal procedures.
Mediation for staff
Workplace mediation can be used to resolve disputes amongst staff working at all levels of seniority and throughout the organisation.
In family run businesses or organisations that have formed through friends and relatives, mediation can provide a highly effective means of refocusing attention and helping people understand one another.
Mediation for employers and senior management
Whether it is conflict at board level, senior management or in general operations, workplace mediation is a powerful means of resolving issues before they become a bigger problem. Our case study provides a first-hand account of the positive impact workplace mediation can have on your organisation and the people you employ.
To understand how employment mediation can benefit your organisation, please contact enquiries@beststarthr.com or call 01438 747 747