The Dispute Resolution Service staff can discuss your particular issues and assist you in determining the appropriateness of mediation. If mediation is appropriate, the Dispute Resolution Service staff will assign a mediator from its pool of certified mediators.
The Service has 46 certified mediators available in 14 locations throughout the state. Mediators have received intensive training in conflict resolution skills, negotiation skills, and problem solving techniques. Additionally, each has obtained experience by completing practicum requirements for certification.
When selecting a mediator, the needs of your organization are considered; specifically, the nature of the conflict, the demographics of the parties involved, the location of the mediation, and the expertise of the mediator.
Mediation is an effective conflict management process for resolving disagreement in the workplace. The parties participate in problem-solving techniques and assisted negotiations (with neutral mediator) in order to generate solutions which are satisfactory to all parties. Mediators do not serve as decision-making authorities and do not determine which is "right" or "wrong". Their role is to assist the parties in communicating their individual needs and in seeking agreement or settlement to the dispute.
Few issues cannot be addressed through mediation. Any conflict which arises as a natural result of people working together can be resolved with mediation.
However, here are some questions that you can consider when determining whether an issue would be appropriate for mediation.
If you answer yes to any of these questions, mediation may be appropriate.
Mediation skills and perspectives are useful to anyone who wishes to negotiate conflict effectively while preserving the relationships between the conflicting parties. The GMS Employee-Management Relations office is sponsoring Mediation Training, Part I for anyone who would like to develop their problem-solving skills in managing conflicts. The training is designed to provide a basic understanding of mediation, increase negotiation and analytical skills to enhance problem-solving abilities. Topics include the following:
Overview of Conflict
Negotiation
Mediation Process
For additional information, send us an e-mail.
