This process is intended for use in workplace conflict situations where the parties’ previous efforts have failed to result in a mutually satisfactory resolution. Typically four hours in length, a mediation session is an impartial, confidential process entered into on a voluntary basis. In some cases, multiple mediation sessions are needed in order to successfully reach an agreement. Below is a summary of the workplace mediation process:
- Introduction. The parties come together with the mediator, preferably in a neutral setting, and the mediator describes how the process works, defines the role of the mediator and of the parties, and establishes appropriate ground rules.
- Problem Determination. This step allows each party to speak directly to the mediator in order to describe his/her difficulties interacting with the other party.
- Summarizing. In this step, the mediator summarizes the specific problem behaviors as identified by both parties, and begins to focus the process on the most relevant and useful information.
- Identification of Issues and Interests. Here, the mediator helps the parties generate a joint, neutral definition of the issue(s).
- Generating and Evaluating Alternatives. In this step, the mediator helps the parties identify and evaluate specific options that meet the needs of both parties.
- Agreement. Once a verbal agreement has been reached, the mediator drafts the agreement in writing, including specifics of implementation.
- Closure. This step brings the process to an end, and the mediator both congratulates the parties and urges them to remain compliant with the agreement.
