Workplace Mediation

Workplace mediation is an active process. It’s a process through which parties in a work related conflict of disagreement try to resolve the issues with the help of an impartial third party, a mediator. Mediation is voluntary and confidential.

Mediation or Grievance Procedure? workplace mediation Sometimes complaints and grievances develop in the workplace. Sometimes employees feel that they’ve been treated unfairly or that a colleague isn’t treating them appropriately. The individual may feel harassed or bullied. Team work breaks down and people may become less cooperative than normal. Of course, the organisation’s grievance procedure can be used to address issues, but sometimes, grievances mean that there is a winner and a loser. This can leave one party feeling resentful, judged, not listened to. When conflicts occur, a workplace mediator can help the parties with solving the problem. Help them find a way to continue to work together productively.

Why use a mediator?

Being trained in dealing specifically with workplace conflict, Metis Mediators are focussing on solutions. They understand the importance of remaining impartial, so neither party feels ganged up on or ignored. They also understand how to guide the parties to a solution without judging, without placing blame or imposing solutions.

Mediation in the workplace can seem like a process that is reserved for serious conflicts, but it’s not. It can put a stop to conflicts before they become serious. Workplace mediation is helpful even after a conflict has been resolved, helping to patch up strained workplace relationships.

Some workplace conflicts mean mediation is inappropriate. For example, if one of the parties feels threatened by the other. If parties feel forced into mediation and don’t cooperate fully, the process is likely to fail. Since a mediator cannot force a solution, his efforts may be wasted in such cases.

Still wondering if Workplace Mediation can help, check out our Workplace Mediation FAQs page

Would you like to speak in confidence with one of our mediators? Give us a call now on 01706 565332 or email us