Workplace mediation

Shifting perceptions to effect change

Mediate first

With strong experience and expertise in HR, we apply our specialist skills to resolve interpersonal workplace conflict.

The scenario
Workplace conflict is uncomfortable for the people involved. Left unchecked – or when the organisation has tried and failed – the whole team suffers. You’ll see productivity bottlenecks, absenteeism, resignations, workers’ compensation claims, and a culture of negativity.

Left to escalate, workplace conflict can damage reputations.

Today, the onus is on employers to address workplace conflict. An investigation might identify the problems. But only mediation will uncover the underlying cause and enable the people impacted to design a path forward together.

Taite mediates workplace conflicts arising from:

  • Interpersonal issues
  • Bullying, harassment or discrimination allegations
  • Personality clashes
  • Different work styles
  • Communication breakdowns
  • Disagreements over tasks or responsibilities
How we work

Using an accredited and structured process, Taite helps people address workplace conflict thoroughly and constructively.

“We create the conditions for people to have a full and frank conversation about what has happened, how it has affected them and what they need going forward,” Tania Waters says. “People often come into mediation with very different versions of the same situation. My role isn’t to decide who is right or wrong, but to help them understand what is really happening between them and work out what needs to change.”

The process begins with a private and confidential two-hour pre-mediation meeting with each participant. This gives each person time to tell their story fully, ask questions about the process and consider what they would like to achieve. It also allows Tania to assess whether mediation is likely to be helpful.

If mediation proceeds, participants come together on a separate day for a facilitated, full and frank discussion. Once the issues have been properly explored, they can make practical decisions about how they want to work together and move forward.

The aim is not simply to reach an agreement. It is to create greater understanding, clearer communication and practical decisions that support a healthier and more productive working relationship.

Workplace mediation profile