Work Conflict Resolution
Conflict in the workplace is common. Statistics show that managers spend around 20% of their time dealing with work conflict resolution. This means that in a 40-hour workweek, 8 hours are dedicated solely to managing conflicts.
The good news is that conflict doesn’t have to be harmful if it’s managed well. When addressed early, work conflict resolution can lead to positive outcomes and prevent issues from escalating. However, when not managed properly, conflict can significantly impact both the business and its employees. Safework Australia conducted a survey with 4,242 employees nationwide, highlighting the importance of work conflict resolution in maintaining a healthy workplace.
Key findings from the report:
- The total cost of depression to Australian employers due to presenteeism and absenteeism is estimated at approximately $6.3 billion per year.
- Workers experiencing psychological distress took four times as many sick days per month and had a 154% higher performance loss at work compared to those without distress. This results in an average annual cost of $6,309 per employee experiencing psychological distress.
- Workers with low engagement reported approximately 12% more sick days per month and an average performance loss of eight percent, costing employers $4,796 annually compared to highly engaged workers.
These statistics underscore how unresolved workplace conflict impacts employee mental health and creates substantial costs for businesses. Effective work conflict resolution is essential for reducing these negative effects.
How Workplace Mediation Helps
Workplace mediation can be the most cost-effective and successful solution for resolving conflicts in your business. As a specialist in work mediation, I can assist your organisation by addressing conflicts directly with the involved parties. The workplace mediation process typically begins with individual meetings where each person involved in the conflict can share their story in a private setting. This allows me to listen, understand their perspectives, and provide coaching on how to approach the situation.
I will also meet with HR to gather information about the conflict from their point of view. Following these meetings, I will facilitate a joint mediation session with all parties involved. During this session, we will work together to find a resolution. It’s essential to establish clear agreements and practical steps that can be implemented within the workplace to prevent future conflicts.
Ensuring a Healthy Workplace Environment after Mediation
After completing the mediation process, it’s important to ensure that your staff is equipped to handle future conflicts independently. Upskilling employees through training in work conflict resolution and mediation can empower them to resolve disputes effectively on their own. I offer conflict resolution training that builds the capacity within your team to manage complex matters without needing external intervention.
During the workplace mediation process, I often identify structural issues within the organisation that may contribute to recurring conflicts. These issues aren’t always about the individuals involved but may stem from the business’s systems or culture. I can provide a diagnosis of these structural problems and suggest solutions to address them, helping to create a healthier work environment.
If you’re interested in learning more about workplace mediation, conflict resolution training, or if you want to book my services, please contact me at 0412 233 752 or email me at lisanne@lifemediation.com.au.
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Discover how organisations have efficiently and effectively resolved workplace issues using Life Mediation’s Workplace Mediation services.