Employment Mediation
 

In the past ten years, public agencies such as the U.S. Postal Service and private companies such as Johnson & Johnson have embraced mediation as a first option in addressing workplace disputes.  The traditional route of arbitration or litigation hasn’t worked well enough, because of its adversarial, “win-lose” nature, it’s high cost, and frustrating delays.  Mediation, by contrast,  provides an informal, confidential forum for resolution of discrimination and sexual harassment claims, disability issues, and interpersonal conflicts. In the mediation process, employees and employers feel it’s safe to talk directly about what they really think and feel.  This is the starting point for any effective dispute resolution.

Employment mediation is low-risk and low-stress.  The parties to a conflict devote a few hours to open and honest discussion.  The mediator guides a process of identifying issues, gathering information, creating options, and choosing solutions that have the most value for those involved.  The emphasis is on objective problem-solving, not on “winning a case”. The mediator’s role is to facilitate communication and help the parties find solutions that respect their individual interests.  Terms of agreement are not binding until the parties voluntarily sign a settlement document. 

MediationWorks’ approach to employment disputes is efficient and cost-effective.  We help business get back to work.