Are workplace disputes affecting your employees?

How to choose the right mediator for you
August 22, 2018
Adding Value to the Online Mediation Experience
May 27, 2019
Show all

Photo by Drew Beamer on Unsplash

As a society and community, we are becoming more aware of the presence and impact of mental health issues. Though many are still unwilling or feel unable to reach out for help, the stigma around these issues is slowly abating and hopefully we can reach a point where people do not feel like they have to suffer in silence or in solitude anymore.

A large contributor to mental health conditions are the stresses that derive from our jobs and the interactions in our workplaces. For many of us, a large portion of our days is spent at work and with our colleagues. Our jobs can have a huge impact on the quality of our lives.

In our fast paced world with seemingly never-ending deadlines and tasks, and ever-increasing demands on improving productivity, workers are being pushed to breaking point. In many ways, doing so ends up being counter-productive and harmful in the long run.

According to Safe Work Australia, each year approximately $543 million is paid in workers’ compensation for work-related mental health conditions. These claims frequently also result in more time off work or inability to continue work, in addition to the explicit costs. The most common causes of mental stress include pressure, harassment/bullying and workplace violence.

When disputes or conflicts arise at work, it is imperative that they be addressed promptly and proactively. It is important to listen to all parties involved and work together to formulate and agree on a plan to move forward.

Engaging an independent mediator to assist communication between parties can help to de-escalate and resolve conflict quickly before it inflames or spreads within the workplace. Employees – especially managers – could benefit from targeted communication and conflict resolution skills training.

If you need help choosing a mediator, we can help you! The Accord Group has a panel of experienced mediators based all around Australia with a range of industry backgrounds and expertise. We have flexible mediation packages and you will always get a quote upfront so you know exactly what to expect. We also run a variety of training programs that equip staff with important skills to manage conflict internally.

You can get started by contacting The Accord Group at info@accordgroup.com or call us at (02) 9264 9506.

Summary:

  1. Work-related mental health conditions can be a significant cost to business

  2. Disputes and conflict in the workplace need to be addressed quickly

  3. Engaging an independent, third party can assist with de-escalating and resolving workplace conflict

Comments are closed.