How can a “Process Paramedic” help when conflict disrupts your business?

As an experienced mediator and conflict resolution professional, I sometimes encounter situations where the individuals in an organisation who are experiencing conflict are either:

• unaware that the organisation has policies and procedures that could support and help them deal with matters;
• don’t understand the organisation’s correct internal processes for addressing concerns or conflict; and/or
• have sought assistance from other employees who are equally unaware of appropriate processes and have been told to “just deal with it”.

Are your policies and procedures hidden away in an old filing cabinet?

Some organisations invest in a standard suite of generic policies and procedures provided by associations or others. Often these do not cater for the size of the business and have generic language non-specific to a particular industry or business operation.  In some cases, they may not be appropriate for a particular business. Worse, they may not comply with current legislation or be fit for purpose. 

These documents lie dormant and unused until a conflict arises. It is only then revealed that the documents do not adequately cover the business needs. In these situations, vague, inadequate or inappropriate policies and procedures can contribute to workplace confusion and conflict where people are left to interpret the intent to suit their individual circumstances.

Where an organisation contracts an accredited mediator to assist with resolving workplace conflict, services that deal with process and procedure are concluded in the plan and then a calmer and more settled workplace is achieved.

At Blackforrest Consulting, we have often acted as “Process Paramedics”; assisting organisations to develop effective policies and procedures. We have proven experience in assisting with strategies that can be implemented by an organisation to help prevent most conflict on an ongoing basis.

It’s important to note that policies and procedures are critical for both employers and employers but there may still be situations which require a higher level of skill and ability to deal with complexity between relationships; times like these may require external assistance.

We can prevent costly business disruption

Reviewing your business policies and procedures to ensure they are:

• current;
• appropriate; and
• fit for purpose within your business.

Providing training for your leadership team in:

• dealing with difficult conversations;
• effective communication; and
• appropriate workplace behaviour.

Providing mentoring/coaching for your leadership team in:

• dealing with difficult conversations;
• developing appropriate workplace behaviours; and
• making the most of change.

Contact us now for a confidential discussion about your business’s current or future needs.

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