Conflict Management: When to Call a Mediator

The following list was compiled to help those in workplace settings assess when they might consider calling in an outside mediator to help them resolve conflicts. 

·      The supervisor is not neutral or perceived as being neutral.

·      The supervisor does not have the time to adequately listen to all of the parties and facilitate a process for them.

·      The supervisor is too much a part of the system to assess all of the contributing factors to the conflict.

·      The conflict has escalated beyond the comfort level of the person trying to handle it and the skills of a conflict resolution expert are needed.

When is mediation from an outside party not appropriate in a workplace conflict?

 ·      The supervisor is looking for information that will justify the decision to fire employees.

·      There is no guarantee that the mediation will remain confidential

·      The parties are not open to working with an outside mediator.

·      The primary issue is performance-based (this could be resolved through coaching). 

See other Conflict Management Posts