Summary
This programme is aimed at introducing participants to the needs, benefits and uses of mediation in the workplace. The programme will enable participants to use mediation skills in workplace disputes.
At the end of the programme participants will:
- Have an understanding of what mediation entails
- Understand the 5 stages in the mediation process
- Know what the various types of mediation interventions are
- Have practised the core skills of an effective mediator
- Understand the impact of industrial relations and employment law on mediation interventions
- Be more aware of how to deal with conflict and to help others through situations involving differences
This programme is for:
All those interested in learning how to mediate in workplace disputes to try to ensure the best possible outcome for both the organisation and the individuals involved.
Approach
The approach of this 2 day workshop will be highly interactive and practical. Participants will be encouraged to express their views and to discuss their own experience. The use of practical exercises, case studies and role plays will ensure a high degree of participation and self-learning. A flexible approach will be used throughout and priority will be given to the interests and learning of the group.
Programme Schedule
What is Mediation?
- Brief history of alternative dispute resolution methods
- Context for mediation
- How mediation differs from other interventions such as litigation and arbitration
Types of Mediation
- The five stages in the mediation process
- Types of mediation interventions- evidential & emotional
- Ethics of mediator
- When not to use mediation
Core Skills of Mediator
- Building a rapport
- Listening
- Transactional analysis
- Body language
- Open questions
- Role play and feedback
The Mediation Process
- How a mediator handles the introduction phase
- How to facilitate the storytelling phase
- How to frame issues without inflaming them
- How to move on to the Solution Seeking Phase
- How to handle the Agreement phase
- Participants practice mediating simple disputes
- Role play with feedback
Industrial Relations and Employment Law
- Understanding the key pieces of legislation and their impact on rights
- Bullying and harassment
- Dignity at work
- Grievance and disciplinary issues
- Role plays and feedback
Conflict Resolution and Case Examples/Role Play
- Styles in handling conflict
- Understanding conflict
- The psychological contract and when it gets broken
- Assertiveness as a style to develop
- Learning from past examples
- Putting into practice
- Developing the skills of a mediator
- Action planning
Programme Directors
Louisa Meehan
Louisa holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business and Legal Studies, a Master’s in Business Studies – Human Resources and Industrial Relations and a Postgraduate Certificate in Mediation and Conflict Resolution.
As a strong supporter of women in business Louisa has been involved in various networking groups including Network of Entrepreneurial Women (NEW) run by the Wicklow Local Enterprise Office. In addition, she has been a founding member of the Network Ireland Wicklow Branch and is the 2017 and 2018 president for this branch, and will be the 2020 National President.
