Mediation Meetings for Businesses
The aim of a mediation meeting is to resolve disputes in a timely and effective manner. The mediator acts as a neutral facilitator, encouraging open communication and helping the parties reach an agreement. Typically, the parties will meet in person to discuss the dispute. However, teleconferences or video meetings can be used. The mediator will listen to both sides of the argument and provide information about the process. Afterwards, the mediator will help the parties write an agreement that is acceptable to both sides.
Oftentimes, unresolved conflict festers under the surface in workplaces and bubbles to the surface at the most inconvenient times. One employee’s complaint might seem petty to another, but when left unresolved the conflict has a detrimental impact on all employees involved. Conflict resolution is essential for businesses and a successful mediation meeting will ensure all parties leave with a resolution that is satisfactory to everyone.
A mediator is an impartial third party that is hired by the disputing parties to facilitate discussion and help them come to a mutually acceptable solution. The mediator can be external to the business or an employee from another department. Many businesses also have an in-house mediation team to help settle disputes among their employees. It’s important that a mediator is knowledgeable and trained in conflict resolution techniques and procedures.
Before a mediation, the mediator will usually speak with both parties separately by telephone or in-person to get an understanding of the dispute. During this initial contact, the mediator will also explain what documentation, if any, should be provided prior to the first meeting. The mediator will then propose several names of potential mediators to the parties for their consideration and will set a timetable for the supply of any documentation and the holding of the first mediation meeting.
The first meeting of a mediation is called a joint session and the participants will be placed in a room together. This is an intense and emotionally charged meeting, so it is vital that the participants are well prepared to communicate effectively. It is also a good idea for both parties to be familiar with the specific details of the dispute so that they can understand and appreciate the perspective of their opposing party.
During the discussion, each participant should try to avoid emotional outbursts or personal attacks. If a discussion begins to escalate, the mediator can ask the parties to separate into a private meeting known as a caucus. This allows the participants to continue their discussion with the mediator privately and without the distraction of the other parties.
When discussing a dispute, it’s a good idea for participants to be specific about the outcomes they would like to achieve from the mediation. This will help prevent the conflict from becoming polarized, as each participant is able to understand and articulate their own perspective. This can also help them find areas of mutual interest and compromise. It’s also a good idea to think about other alternatives that you may be willing to consider, should the conflict fail to resolve itself during the mediation process. mediation meeting