OPENING SHOTS


❝


STRATEGY IS WHAT YOU NEED TO DO TO GET YOUR BUSINESS FROM WHERE IT IS TODAY TO WHERE YOU WANT IT TO BE IN THREE TO FIVE YEARS’ TIME


it might be worth considering an


alternative method of resolution such


as mediation. While mediators are not


magicians, the mediation process is magical and is a common-sense


heard, respected or valued. Listen to your team. This will build trust and loyalty and show them they are still important and appreciated. Strive for better communication and it will help forge strong working relationships. So what happens if conflict escalates


and matters take a downward spiral? Ignoring it won’t improve it. Leaving those involved to deal with it on their own will just add fuel to the smouldering fire. Cracks in the company’s structure will


start to be exposed and before you know it, the foundations of a solid business could start to weaken. If you or the HR department can’t resolve inter-relational conflict issues,


www.smeweb.com


solution to resolving internal conflict. It can repair and rebuild damaged relationships amongst employees. It can help them create a sustainable agreement for the future to prevent things going sour again. It can address recurring themes of fairness, justice, inequality and communication problems. The business case for mediation is also


very convincing. If employees’ stress levels and anxieties are reduced, so will their absenteeism, alleviating the pressure on the rest of the team to cover for their absent colleagues. It can save management valuable time and money investigating grievances or dealing with matters if they progress to a tribunal. The beauty of mediation is that it is a


confidential informal process and can be implemented at any stage of the dispute. It gives those involved the chance to have a reasoned, reasonable and dignified conversation. It is voluntary and self- determined so the likelihood is stacked highly in favour of the parties involved sticking to their resolution or agreement. And finally, it is future focused, so removes that sense of ‘no way back’. The aim is to build bridges not burn them. Employees are your frontline


ambassadors. If you look after their wellbeing, they will look after your interests. Risk assessment of your business may identify many areas that could harm or jeopardise your big plans and ultimately cost you money. Conflict need not be one of them if it is identified and addressed early. The reward will be a loyal, harmonious and productive team who will support you through exciting times of change and growth.


Nicole Posner is an independent workplace mediator np-mediation.london


SME 15


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