Workplace Mediation

Session 5
 Recap
• The process of determining when someone is ready to return to
work
• The importance of a return to work discussion and plan
• How to manage performance and team dynamics
• What does reasonable accommodation mean and where does this
fit in with legislation
Summary of Session 5

Learning to identify your communication and conflict styles

What is workplace mediation?

• Neutral third party brought into assist with the
conflict/dispute
• Voluntary and Confidential Process
• Can have confidential side sessions
Communication Styles
Empathy and Assertiveness
Workplace Mediation

Sometimes, a one
on one Especially where the manager might be the problem
conversation does
not work.

Neutral third party brought into assist with the conflict/dispute

What is Voluntary and Confidential Process
workplace Can have side sessions
mediation? Flexible Process
Workplace Mediation: The Process

Ideally the mediator should have individual confidential conversations with each party prior to
mediation

Each party to prepare remarks to open joint session

Discuss the Issues

Brainstorm a solution

Agreement/Resolution and way forward

When to call a mediator
How to access mediation at UCT?
Scenario Part 3
• Despite your conversation in Part 2, things have not been
resolved
• Alex has not met his KPA despite being put on a PIP/RTW plan
• It is decided to have a neutral third Party Mediate

*Confidential Roles provided to Alex and Manager

And the Oscar goes to….