We hear a lot of people saying how they tried mediation but it didn't work or it failed. There's a big difference between somebody untrained having a go at mediation and a properly trained, skilled and competent mediator being involved.

If the person in the middle wasn't a properly trained mediator, it wasn't actually mediation!

Policies and laws are vital but should only be a basic reference point for workplace interactions. Recognising and addressing an over-reliance on policies is crucial to fostering a more dynamic, engaging, and harmonious work environment. Let's aim to be pole vaulters, exceeding the minimum standards for a better workplace culture.

Soft skills, especially those needed for effective communication with employees, are often the toughest nuts to crack for managers. The struggle managers face due to a lack of confidence and proper training in handling tough conversations and resolving conflicts is real. The piece also touches on how HR often steps in to fix things, which might help short-term, but doesn't really teach managers to handle these situations themselves. 

Are you worried about role plays in mediator training? This blog is for you! We will never embarrass you infront of the class - we make it really comfortable and we always get told that delegates were dreading the thought of role plays but really enjoyed them!

How do you fancy listening to me rabbiting on about avoiding grievances and changing cultures?

Well I had the opportunity to do so when I was invited to the HR Coffee Time podcast by the truly wonderful Fay Wallis.

Fay asked me some pretty searching questions and thankfully she didn't mind me using a couple of naughty words!