01 Feb Virtual Mediation: The Future is Online

Posted at 08:00h in Mediation

The adoption of online mediation is on the rise despite these challenges. It is driven by the growing demand for remote dispute resolution services and the increasing acceptance of virtual communication technologies. As we embrace the digital age, virtual mediation offers a promising path forward for resolving conflicts efficiently, accessibly, and sustainably. Virtual mediation represents a paradigm shift in conflict resolution, offering a modern, convenient, and effective alternative to traditional face-to-face mediation. By leveraging technology to overcome geographical barriers and streamline the mediation process, virtual mediation has the potential to revolutionise the way we approach conflict resolution in the digital...

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31 Jan Addressing workplace bullying: Prevention and Support for Victims

Posted at 07:25h in Mediation

In workplaces around the world, a silent epidemic is lurking behind closed doors, wreaking havoc on the mental health and overall well-being of employees. This insidious foe is none other than workplace bullying. While it may not always manifest in overt ways, its impact can be profoundly damaging, both for victim and for the organisation as a whole. In this blog post, we delve into what workplace bullying entails, explore strategies for prevention, and outline steps victims can take to seek support and justice. Understanding workplace bullying workplace bullying incorporates a range of behaviours that are hostile, intimidating, or otherwise intended to...

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29 Jan Struggles of a Junior Mediator: Building Ethical Confidence

Posted at 09:40h in Mediation

With the advent of court-referred mediation in Rule 41A of the High Court Rules, mediation and related career opportunities have skyrocketed. Many entrepreneurs, law graduates and attorneys see this as the best time to gain accreditation as a mediator after completing a course and gaining panel membership to a mediation body as such. The superfluous nature of mediation as a career at present has simultaneously offered various career prospects, but also a difficulty in regulation and navigating of this field of newbie mediators. This article seeks to enlighten baby-mediators as to the struggles often faced in the context of the...

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28 Jan When all you have is a hammer, everything starts to look like a nail

Posted at 17:44h in Mediation

"When all you have is a hammer, everything starts to look like a nail," perfectly captures the potential pitfall of relying on a single approach to conflict resolution. In the world of mediation, this translates to overdependence on certain techniques or strategies, even when they're not the best fit for the situation. Let's explore some common "hammers" in mediation and the unintended consequences of overusing them: 1. The "Quick fix hammer": Driven by the desire for a speedy resolution, mediators might rely heavily on direct proposals or one-sided concessions. While this approach may ...

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24 Jan Embracing trauma-informed mediation in conflict resolution

Posted at 18:07h in Mediation

Trauma-informed mediation involves adapting the mediation process to accommodate the specific needs of trauma survivors. Mediators may implement strategies to manage triggers or emotional distress during the mediation session, such as incorporating grounding techniques, providing breaks, or allowing for additional support persons to be present. Shifting the lens: understanding trauma-informed mediation Unlike conventional models, trauma-informed mediation doesn't merely focus on resolving disputes; it prioritizes the well-being of all parties involved. ...

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23 Jan Ten toxic phrases: what not to say in mediation

Posted at 18:17h in Mediation

However, despite its potential, even a single misstep, a poorly chosen word, can shatter the delicate dance of compromise and reignite discord. As participants turn to mediation with the best of intentions, there are some who unknowingly sabotage the process with their words, leading to an unsuccessful outcome. In this vulnerable space, certain phrases have the power to detonate trust and goodwill. So, before venturing into the arena of mediation, equip yourself with the knowledge of what not to say. 1. "There's no way I'll ever agree to that." ...

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