In January, we introduced the subject of mediation in our article ‘Mediation is always better way to reconciliation,’ and this spoke about why mediation should always be the first course of action when dealing with conflict in the workplace. So important is this subject that we will be embarking on a mediation mini-series in the next few months dealing first with the power of mediation, then the process of mediation, and finally, the techniques of becoming a better mediator in the workplace.
If you read our first article on the importance of mediation, apart from learning what mediation is and how it works, you will be aware that workplace conflict is best handled by ![]()
experts in labour relations and those hired by companies on a full-time basis, even if they are outsourced. The reason is that these experts will generally be monitoring workplace performance and behaviour and being able to sense some dissatisfaction brewing among employees.
However, we also believe that it is important for employers to understand the power and the importance of mediation for themselves so that they can be encouraged to use this to prevent escalated potential conflict.
Mediation is such a powerful negotiation tool because it is often used to diffuse what may become serious conflict scenarios before they can happen. When we mediate with the parties involved (instead of allowing things to get to the point where they become explosive) we achieve a few important things:
We foster better understanding
More often than not, people just need to understand where each other is coming from and put themselves in each other’s shoes. It is in the mediation process that we remind the employer of the value of their employees and the employee of the necessity to add value to the employer’s business and not do just what is necessary.
We improve relationships
This automatically improves relationships because good relationships are based on accommodating each other’s needs through understanding them and adopting an attitude of ‘one hand washes the other.’
We promote productivity
Improved relationships invariably lead to a happier and, subsequently, more productive workforce. Those who feel valued and heard will always make a greater effort to become valuable to their employer.
Great benefits
Mediation is also powerful because it has great benefits that aid with dissolving conflict before conflict resolution is required.
Some of these are:
Improved communication
Once lines of communication are opened through mediation, then both parties generally see this as a good platform on which to air grievances as opposed to allowing things to get to a point of real conflict.
Reduced tension
Through better communication, any tensions that were beginning to arise are quickly quelled as there is an outlet for grievances. This is not unlike a valve that lets off steam before something reaches boiling point!
Enhanced collaboration
A great benefit of improved communication through mediation is that both parties now adopt an attitude of collaboration towards achieving the same goals.
Consult the mediation experts
What is so important to a business is to help employees understand why conflict resolution is beneficial in the first place. If employees can’t see the need to effectively resolve conflicts, they will not engage in the process, and your efforts to develop these skills in your employees will be unsuccessful.
As experienced Labour and Industrial relations experts, ![]()
Platinum Business Solutionsbenefit all our clients by, first and foremost, diffusing conflict in the workplace through mediation and various other methods of keeping the peace on a day-to-daybasis. To learn more,contact us and watch this space for our article on theprocess of mediation in the workplace.