Workplace Mediation Blog

The Great Stapler Standoff: A Tale of Office Drama and Paper Clips

Listening is a skill I’ve spent years working on, and one particular workplace mediation taught me just how powerful -and occasionally ridiculous -it can be when you get it right. I was called in to mediate a heated dispute between two colleagues over, of all things, a stapler. Yes, a stapler. At first glance, it […]

The Workplace Conflict Resolution Gap: Why Proactive Strategies Matter

Workplace conflict is inevitable, but how it’s handled can determine whether issues are resolved or allowed to fester. According to a recent report from the CIPD (Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development), there is a stark disconnect between how employers and employees perceive conflict management. While 81% of employers believe they are addressing conflicts effectively, […]

Balancing Privacy and Accountability in the Workplace

In today’s workplaces, the balance between privacy and accountability is more important and complicated than ever. With the rise of advanced technology, employers now have unprecedented access to employee activities. But where do we draw the line between monitoring for safety and performance and respecting an employee’s right to privacy?  A Case in the Headlines: […]

Navigating Workplace Conflicts in the Era of Remote Work

As remote work becomes the norm, how we handle workplace conflicts is also evolving. The lack of face-to-face interactions and the potential for misinterpreting written communication can lead to misunderstandings and disagreements. Without the usual cues from voice intonation and body language, small issues can quickly escalate into significant conflicts. This makes clear and empathetic […]

Mediation in the Workplace: Best Practice and Benefits

Introduction Workplace conflicts are inevitable, but how they are handled can significantly affect an organisation’s overall health. Mediation has emerged as a powerful tool for resolving disputes, promoting a harmonious work environment, and avoiding costly litigation. This blog delves into the best practices for implementing mediation in the workplace, the benefits it brings, and a […]

Understanding Workplace Mediation Costs in Australia: A Comprehensive Guide

workplace mediation cost in Australia

Navigating workplace conflicts can be challenging, but organisations can foster a harmonious work environment with effective resolution strategies like mediation. Mediation, a highly effective method for resolving disputes, promotes open communication and fosters positive working relationships. However, understanding the costs associated with workplace mediation in Australia is essential for informed decision-making. In this blog, we’ll […]

Managing Bad Customer Behaviour: Strategies For Frontline Workers

Raised voices, swearing, name calling. These are things frontline workers in service roles often find themselves dealing with. Whether it’s a disgruntled customer in a shop, a frustrated caller on a helpline, or a challenging guest at reception, these encounters are unfortunately all too common.  This article explores the prevalence of negative customer interactions, delves […]

How to Tackle Difficult Conversations in the Workplace (A Step-By-Step Guide)

Knowing how and when to have a difficult conversation is a vital skill for anyone in a workplace and is one of the key pillars of conflict resolution. The need to have a difficult conversation can arise for various reasons. A difference in values or perspectives, unmet performance targets, or disrespectful behaviour will, at some […]

Will workplaces be better in 2024? Here are 5 predictions.

As we bid farewell to 2023, workplaces are navigating a path forward, defining their future. In many ways, it’s been another year of workplaces finding their feet. Some continue to embrace the lessons and ways of working developed during the pandemic, while others are rolling back certain freedoms. As we head into 2024, I share […]

Promoting a Safer Workplace: NSW’s Respect at Work Strategy for Preventing Sexual Harassment

The NSW government recently released SafeWork’s NSW Respect at Work Strategy: preventing sexual harassment. It’s a comprehensive four-year plan to prevent and address sexual harassment in workplaces across NSW.  It’s a response to the landmark Respect@Work report by the Australian Human Rights Commission and the facts that: 1 in 3 Australians have experienced sexual harassment […]