How Do You Resolve Workplace Conflict Through Mediation?
Learn why mediation works so well for resolving workplace conflicts. Power imbalance breeds resentment and anger. When an employee feels strongly that there is a power imbalance with his or her supervisor, it does not matter whether that power imbalance is real or perceived. What matters is knowing what to do to resolve the situation and to prevent it from turning into a destructive personal war. As a workplace mediator, I often get called in to mediate these situations. A good way to start is by understanding the employee’s feelings. However, after she or he feels heard and understood, it is quite important to shift her/his mind from the past to the future. Although the problem is in the past, any resolution can only be found in the future. Talking about the future is safe. There is no need to feel angry; no need to feel resentful. Looking Forward In mediation an employee might be asked: Imagine that this problem between you and your supervisor has been resolved. How would things be d
