Mediation
People working together, whether on a volunteer basis, in remunerated position or as business partners, inevitably will encounter situations involving divergent interests creating tension, disputes, or, in the worst scenario, a fully escalated conflict.
In general, it makes sense to start off less-expensive, less-formal conflict resolution procedures, such as mediation, before losing experienced staff members and having to invest resources in trying to replace them, or, in some cases making the larger commitments of money and time that arbitration and litigation often demand. Conflict-resolution supports your ability to negotiate satisfactory resolutions to your disputes through engaging a trained, skilled mediator working with disputing parties to help them discover a consensus that is sustainable, voluntary, and nonbinding.
Why us?
Our Co-founder, Melanie Whittaker, is an internationally certified mediator, with a special focus on intercultural, business & political mediation in the context of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion. Fluent in German and English, she brings with her over two decades of working with leaders and executives across industries spanning six continents ranging from the grassroots level to the halls of power.
How long does it take?
There is no set rule. Disputing sides may come to an agreement in just a couple of hours, or it might take more than one session over a longer period. The mediator steers the conflicting parties through the different phases involved in a mediation such as explaining their positions, identifying interests, working towards a consensus, and concluding in a non-binding agreement by all parties involved.
Can mediation be done virtually?
In some cases, mediation can be done in a virtual setting or in a hybrid form. It is advantageous to conduct mediation in person as it involves high levels of communication not only in the spoken word, but also body language and other tools enhancing communication and understanding.
How much does it cost?
Mediation involving 2-3 people: £185 per hour.
Mediation involving 3-5 people: £225 per hour.
Mediation involving more than 5 people require a second mediator to ensure a fair and equitable process providing all parties involved with the room to present their interests.
Contact us at melanie@designation.one