Mediation of specific workplace conflicts has become well established in NZ during the past decade. It is a particularly useful process when a relationship is on-going and those in dispute will continue to work together.
Mediation recognises that those involved in a dispute have an interest in moving on, and are committed to doing so. The role of the mediator is to assist as a neutral facilitator to manage a process which enables those in dispute to:
- Listen to each other in a safe environment
- Explore possibilities and options for future direction
- Agree on their own solutions. The role of the mediator is to assist the parties to agree on outcomes which are practical and achievable.
The process is confidential, and will usually include individual meetings with the parties prior to the mediation as a way of identifying the issues, and ensuring that each party feels heard and understood.. These meetings also ensure that the process of mediation is well understood and participation has been mutually agreed. Separate meetings may be held during the mediation, if that is what those in dispute wish.
