An inside look at conflict resolution supports
Pink Shirt Day (Feb. 28) is a great time to remind everyone that Employee Engagement offers confidential conflict resolution services. VCH is committed to a respectful workplace and should you feel bullied, disrespected or in conflict with others, we’re here to help!
What is conflict resolution?
Sometimes referred to as “alternative dispute resolution,” conflict resolution is different from typical forms of complaint investigations that that we engage in under the Respectful Workplace program (internal link). In conflict resolution, we are not looking for a finding of fault or issuing discipline.
Instead, the emphasis is to find a compromise to a problem that is suitable for both parties where they will agree to a resolution with the assistance of a trained mediator (HR advisor) who acts as a neutral third party. The benefit is that it permits the parties to maintain control over the dispute and actively participate in the resolution, which promotes a “win-win” outcome that is mutually satisfying.
Conflicts such as these are a big part of the work that the HR Advisors get brought in to resolve.
“Many people are not aware that this option is available to those who want a skilled third party person to assist them to resolve differences. So often we find that there are wide and varying assumptions about why people behave towards us as they do,” said Kathleen DaLuz, the Manager of the Respectful Workplace Program.
“By diving to the root of the conflict, we’re able to help those involved come up with a plan together on how to engage with one another in the future, check assumptions and actually express what they are perceiving in a healthy and non-confrontational way.”
It works
The long term success of this approach has been notable.
“In the majority of the cases, the parties are able to stick to their agreements and problems do not persist. Employees also really appreciate the confidential nature of the process and the fact that they decide what the next steps will be,” reports Kathleen.
Ask for help
If you are experiencing any type of disrespectful behaviour or conflict within the workplace, a Human Resource Advisor is available to help resolve the issue.
Report your concern by calling 1-844-662-8559 or through your manager/supervisor/HR Advisor. You will be provided with an opportunity to confidentially debrief your experience and choose from different support option(s) including conflict/mediation resolution services.
For more information on these supports, visit the Respectful Workplace page (internal link).
If you have any questions, please email Kathleen Daluz, HR Manager.
Don’t forget to wear pink on Feb. 28!
Remember to wear pink on February 28 to show your support for ‘Respect Every Day.’
Also, share your photos from Pink Shirt Day with Employee Engagement for possible inclusion in VCH News. You can email the photos to EmployeeEngagementInquiries@vch.ca.