The systemic impact of workplace mediation

Although mediation typically takes place only between 2 parties, when conducted in a workplace environment, its effects can be far reaching. The systemic impacts of mediation can benefit organizations in a multitude of subtle and obvious ways.
 
Maintain and Improve Relationships
 
Conflict often impacts the quality of relationships. Disputing parties can end up with severely damaged relationships and lines of communication. Mediation can help mend relationships by dealing with issues and repairing harm. Mediation has also been shown to improve relationships for the future. Just by going through the process parties can improve their communication and feel accomplished, like they have conquered a challenge together.
 
Skill Building
 
All parts of the organization can benefit from the improved skills that mediation participants may leave with. From communication skills like listening to increased self-awareness, participants’ teams, clients and even families may see more positive interactions. These skills are also applicable in more than just conflict situations, as skills like communication can be helpful in a multitude of workplace situations.
 
Healthy Team Functioning
 
Mediation can help not only the two individuals involved in mediation to work better together but may impact the rest of the team as well. Having the stress of conflict melt away, combined with improved skills, productivity may increase and lead to improved collaboration and teamwork.
 
Psychological Safety
 
Workplace mediation can have a positive impact on psychological safety in the organization. By resolving conflict and dealing with underlying issues organizations can demonstrate to their people that management cares enough to create a safe environment. This in turn can lower rates of leave and staff turnover.
 
Workplace mediation is an important piece of any organization’s conflict tool kit. Interested in how a mediator may benefit your team? Contact us today!