We all recognise the serious impact that conflict can have on our working lives and the working lives of others.
Conflict in the workplace is an inevitable aspect of any organisation. When diverse individuals with varying viewpoints and work styles collaborate, disagreements can occur. Addressing these conflicts efficiently is crucial to maintaining a healthy work environment and organisational productivity. This article explores how mediation can be a key tool in managing and resolving workplace conflicts effectively.
Conflict which goes unresolved can become debilitating. It can lead to heightened levels of anxiety and worry and dominate your thinking, often leading to lack of sleep and illness.
When it comes to considering some of the key fundamentals of a modern workplace e.g. employee engagement, performance management, talent retention, innovation, a positive working environment – conflict has the potential to undermine all of them. It is inevitable.
Some of the statistics globally on this are startling:
- 70% of employees are disengaged, 18% actively disengaged
- An estimated 30% of a manager’s time is spent on dealing with conflict
- 52% of managers have experienced harassment
- Chronic unresolved conflict acts as a decisive factor in 50% of departures and 90% of involuntary departures
- Work-related conflict is among the top eight reasons why employees request counselling assistance
- 26% of employees experienced conflict that led to bullying
- 80% of non-managers believe that conflict is not handled well by those above them in the organisation
- 54% of employees think managers could handle disputes better by addressing underlying tensions before things go wrong
The Impact of Conflict in the Workplace
Unresolved conflicts in the workplace can lead to reduced productivity, lower employee morale, increased absenteeism, and higher turnover rates. It can affect everything from team dynamics to the overall health of an organisation. Therefore, it’s essential for management to understand the causes of workplace conflict and address them proactively.
Common Causes of Workplace Conflicts:
- Communication barriers
- Personality clashes
- Competition for resources
- Misalignment of goals and values
Of the causes cited for conflict, two thirds of Irish workers (66%) think personality clashes are the major cause of conflict at work. It seems that it is very challenging for a manager to manage this type of conflict. Research supports this telling us that managers and leaders find it difficult to handle conflict because it is filled with difficult emotional issues that they find very challenging to control or manage.
Mediation as a Strategy for Conflict Resolution
Mediation is a confidential and voluntary process where a neutral third-party mediator helps disputants come to a consensus on their own. Unlike traditional disciplinary actions, mediation focuses on collaboration and finding a mutually beneficial resolution to conflicts.
Benefits of Mediation in the Workplace
- Enhanced Communication: Mediation encourages open communication and dialogue, helping to clear misunderstandings and foster better relationships.
- Confidentiality: Being a private process, mediation allows parties to express themselves freely without fear of public exposure or repercussions.
- Cost-Effective: Mediation is less expensive than other forms of dispute resolution such as litigation or prolonged conflicts.
- Preserves Relationships: By focusing on effective communication and mutual respect, mediation helps maintain professional relationships in the workplace.
Implementing Mediation in the Workplace
To effectively implement mediation in the workplace, organisations should consider the following steps:
- Develop a Mediation Policy: Establish clear guidelines on how mediation will be used to resolve conflicts.
- Hire A Mediator: Invest in hiring external professionals with expertise in mediation to ensure a win-win outcome for all parties involved.
- Promote a Mediation Culture: Encourage employees to opt for mediation as a first step to conflict resolution, reinforcing its benefits and effectiveness.
Making Mediation Work for Your Organisation
Mediation can transform how conflicts are managed in the workplace by fostering a culture of communication and respect. For organizations looking to implement or improve their conflict resolution strategies, investing in a structured mediation process is a wise move. Not only does it help in resolving disputes, but it also contributes to a more harmonious workplace environment.
Contact Us for Professional Mediation Services
If your organisation is experiencing conflict and needs professional mediation services, contact us today. Our team of experts is ready to assist you in developing a mediation program that suits your unique workplace needs.
