Mediation
It is different to counselling and its purpose is to solve disputes between two or more parties who possess a genuine desire to achieve a mutually satisfying outcome.
The mediator acts by supporting all parties involved to focus on the mutual problem, discuss possible solutions and agree upon a solution.
Workplace Mediation
Employees and employers who are in dispute can work with a mediator to find a mutually agreed solution. It is a voluntary process. This means it is important that both sides agree to take part and to work towards a solution.
As both sides work together to solve the problem, the participants are in control of the resolution process. Mediation is an informal process, which when works, can be more effective and have a more positive outcome than going to court.
How Workplace Mediation Can Help Your Organisation
- It can help your organisation avoid lengthy and expensive legal costs.
- It will help those involved in disputes feeling like they have to leave their employment.
- Employee turnover also carries a significant cost to the employer, as they have lost an experienced staff member. It can also mean a recruitment drive and more onboarding.
- Other staff members are often affected by issues they have not been directly a part of. Sometimes, they can experience a residual vicarious trauma through witnessing the events unfold.
- This can also lead to others who were not part of the situation, deciding to leave to seek better working environments in which to work. And a further cost is incurred for the company to recruit again.