Should I Use Mediation for a Dispute With My Employer?

When you work closely with a team or other coworkers, close bonds and friendships can form. On the other hand, conflict can arise as well. Workplace disputes are not uncommon. Sometimes they are small tiffs that you can get over quickly, and other times they are huge disagreements or arguments that cannot be ignored. If you are considering litigation for a workplace dispute with your employer, you may want to consider mediation first. For more information on mediation and to find out if it is the right choice for you, contact a skilled Marquette employment lawyer.

What is Mediation?

Mediation is an option that you can use to deal with conflict. In mediation, a neutral third party acts as a mediator to help the relevant parties resolve an issue or dispute. Depending on what the issue or argument is, it can be difficult for two opposing people to effectively communicate. They may have feelings of anger or resentment that cloud their ability to truly hear the other person. A mediator helps the parties navigate the conversation by implementing negotiation techniques to ensure that everyone’s voice is heard and respected. Because the mediator is impartial, they will be objective and effectively help facilitate the conversation.

When is Mediation Needed?

Mediation can be needed anytime there is a workplace conflict. It is just one of many ways to resolve issues. Depending on the situation and what the dispute is about you may need to hire an attorney and go to court. However, it is important to remember that it is not your only option. Anytime there is an issue that prevents you from doing your work or cooperating with your employer, mediation can help. The following are examples of workplace issues that can benefit from the use of mediation.

• Disagreements
• Personality clashes
• Harassment or bullying
• Discrimination
• Cultural differences and misunderstandings

What Are the Benefits of Mediation With an Employer?

• You can openly communicate
  • When you use mediation, you will get to openly explain your side of the story and so will the other party.
• It’s cost-effective
  • Litigation can be expensive to go through. Court fees, attorney costs, and time off work all can add up. There is no telling how long you will have to retain the services of a lawyer or how many times you will have to appear in court. Mediation is much more efficient and allows you to avoid some hefty costs associated with litigation.
• It’s private
  • You may wish to maintain an air of privacy depending on the subject matter. If you choose to go the route of litigation any sensitive information or private matters will become public record. You can avoid that by only working with a private mediator.
• It offers flexible solutions
  • If your goal is to keep working at your company, you do not want the decision of a judge to create an uncomfortable rift between you and the other party. In litigation, a judge will likely rule in favor of one side. Mediation allows you to collaborate and come up with a creative solution that benefits everyone involved.