MEDIATION

Mediation to resolve workplace issues, as well as EEO disputes, is becoming more widely used by the day. Mediation can resolve problems and open the door to a new relationship between a supervisor and employee as well as peers in the workplace.

What is mediation? Mediation is a voluntary process that gives persons in conflict or disagreement the ability to resolve their problems directly and confidentially. The mediator, a neutral third party, helps the parties communicate more clearly, resolve differences, and reach an agreement that meets the needs of all parties. Specifically, the mediator assists the parties in listening and talking to each other, gaining clarity on options and possibilities, and achieving a better understanding of each other's view. Most often, parties create an agreement that resolves the dispute as the parties define. Confidentiality is the heart of mediation, and an agreement is written only if it is agreed to by all the parties.

Working Dynamics mediates workplace issues before they become full-blown disputes as well as mediates EEO disputes after they have become a formal charge. Since 1991, Susan Gunn has mediated cases for such organizations as the United States Postal Service (USPS), the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), Virginia Department of Employment Dispute Resolution (EDR), Dispute Resolution Center of Richmond (DRC), and public and private workplaces.

Read Mediation to Transform Workplace Relationships for Working Dynamics' responses to frequently asked questions.

Prior to participating in a mediation, read Prepare for a Successful Mediation in order to be an informed mediation participant.