Mediation

Why mediation?

Mediation differs from other formats in that the parties to the conflict are equally involved in the process and it is up to them to find a sustainable solution for both parties. In other formats, decisions are often made by third parties (e.g. courts, lawyers, arbitration offices) and one of the conflict parties is defeated.

Mediators act neutrally in a conflict resolution and help the parties involved to find new solutions through a new form of communication, resulting in an appropriately long-term agreement.

What is the benefit of mediation?

Mediation pursues the goal of guiding the parties involved to a new level of communication. Both sides learn to look at the conflicts from different angles and to re-evaluate them. Dealing with the associated emotions also is an integral part of the process. This gives the opportunity to regain the old calmness, composure and joy.

Does mediation help to save costs?

Yes, mediation is an effective measure to reduce conflict costs.

For example, a study by KMPG has shown that approximately 10 to 15 percent of working time in each company is spent on conflict management and that as much as 30 to 50 percent of the weekly working time of managers is spent managing conflicts or the consequences of conflicts.

In addition, a 2019 WHO study found that unresolved conflict at the intrapersonal level leads to increased distance or negative attitudes toward one’s job and, consequently, decreased job performance. Mediation offers successful support precisely in these intrapersonal and interpersonal conflicts.

Duration of a mediation

It is of course difficult to give a general answer to this question, as it depends on many aspects. Often one can assume two to five appointments of 1.5 to 2 hours each. Mediations with teams and groups usually last 1 to 3 days and are conducted at least on half a day each.

Presence or online mediation?

There are advantages and disadvantages to both options, which is why we offer both. Recent years have shown that online appointments can be a good alternative to face-to-face appointments. Most importantly, the process needs to take place in a protected space. Of course, the online variant is advantageous if the clients are far away from the mediator. On the other hand, some people find it important to meet in person. In a conversation we will find out the best variant for you.

What does mediation cost?

We mediators work for a fixed hourly or daily rate. This varies depending on the scope and subject matter of the conflict. In some conflict constellations, it is advisable to work as a team in co-mediation. We will be happy to tell you the fee in a personal meeting.

Prerequisite for mediation?

If a conflict exists and the parties involved are willing to tackle it together, then mediation is possible. If only one party is willing to do so, then we recommend conflict coaching.

When does mediation make sense?

When mediation is useful and when it is not can only be clarified during a free preliminary discussion. An essential prerequisite for mediation is the willingness of the parties involved to talk to each other.

When is mediation not advisable?

If the parties involved do not come to mediation of their own free will, this format is not advisable. If only one of the parties is willing to work on solutions, conflict coaching is a good option.

Furthermore, mediation is not advisable if addictive or abusive behavior is present. This will also be clarified in the preliminary discussion.

How does mediation work?

Mediation is a structured process in which all parties involved have an equal say and are heard. Each party can present “his or her truth”. In some cases, it may be useful to hold individual preliminary conversations. Subsequently, the issues raised are collected, prioritized and worked on. The mediator’s task is to use the words which have been said and, through a different choice of words, through questions and other tools, to achieve a new understanding on the part of the participants. The mediation process usually ends with a written agreement between the parties, in which the solutions found are fixed. Depending on the case, it may therefore also be advisable to seek the advice of lawyers, tax advisors or auditors before concluding this agreement, or to have the agreement notarized.

What is team or group mediation?

Teams or groups often face numerous challenges. On the one hand, an increasingly digital and globally connected world requires constant adjustments, which can lead to enormous time pressure. On the other hand, teams are mostly heterogeneously composed, have different cultural backgrounds or behaviors. This, among other things, can lead to conflicts that indirectly affect the work result. Mediation is a good tool here to face these multiple challenges and to become aware of the current situation. In this way, a change in communication leads to positive cooperation again (see also Mediation for Teams and Groups).

What can you expect at the end of a mediation?

The goal of mediation is a solution developed jointly by the parties involved that is sustainable. Since mediation helps the conflicting parties to find a new form of communication, it also opens up new approaches to finding solutions, which usually result in a written agreement.

If this goal cannot be fully achieved, the parties involved have more clarity about the current situation and can draw on newly acquired communication skills to deal with similar situations in a more relaxed and positive way in the future.