Why Mediation?
The Australian National Mediator Approval Standards defines mediation as ;
“A process in which the participants, with the support of a mediator, identify issues, develop options, consider alternatives and make decisions about future actions and outcomes. The mediator acts as a third party to support participants to reach their own decision.”
Mediation is used successfully with relationship issues, workplace relations between employees, B to B disputes and certainly in franchise disputes.
A mediator does not judge or advise, they simply facilitate open discussion between two parties, with a view to coming to an agreement that both parties can accept.
The benefits of mediation are many. The obvious one being that mediation is simpler and less expensive than a court of law.
Mediation allows issues that may have been suppressed, to be aired and expressed in a safe and neutral environment. This can be very helpful in a workplace where poor working relationships can affect staff performance and general morale.
A disagreement between businesses, perhaps involving service delivery and payment is often mediated successfully leaving both parties feeling that the issue is resolved and that they can “move on”.
75% of all franchise disputes mediated reach an agreement in only one mediation session.. The Franchising Code of Conduct stipulates that if either franchisor/franchisee requests a mediation process that the other party must attend and share the mediation cost.
Advantages of using mediation to resolve issues in your workplace or with clients/ suppliers.
• Confidentiality (to the extent permitted by the law)
This is of great benefit as the terms agreed to within the mediation do not set a precedent.
Concessions can be made without others knowing.
• Everyone has a chance to have their say.
• Cost effective. Much cheaper than the courts.
• Time efficient. The courts process is lengthy and stressful.
• Mediation allows for often creative and satisfying resolutions to be achieved.
Not all situations are ideal for mediation but the mediator will determine the suitability at a preliminary meeting held privately with each party.
Mediation when used appropriately and conducted professionally and neutrally is an extremely powerful process.
© franchisingplus
Author ; Carolyn Dufton Dip.Bus(franchising)
Carolyn is the principal of franchisingplus. franchisingplus is a franchising consultancy advising and mentoring on all aspects of franchising on a national and international basis.
The content displayed is franchisingplus copyright and can only be reproduced or re-published with the acknowledgement of the author Carolyn Dufton. www.franchisingplus.com.au/contact/
