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Mediation FAQ | Common Scenarios

An Opportunity for Change
Conflict is often viewed as something to avoid. Feelings of inadequacy, anger, or even fear can be present when conflict arises; so much so, that avoiding the situation all together may seem like the most desirable option.

To effectively deal with conflict, an appropriate course of action must be taken to produce the change that leads to a positive work experience. Mediation can help guide the process.

About Mediation
The JMU Human Resources department provides a mediation program to assist employees from all across campus with resolving conflict.

Through mediation, a process that is designed to encourage open conversation between the parties, participants are able to have honest dialogue. Issues are addressed and solutions are reached at the base level, instead of moving up the "chain of command". The process includes a time for each individual to state his or her issues in an informal and non-adversarial way. The goal is to find common ground and then reach an agreement or solution to the problem.

Mediation Sessions
Mediation sessions are available for both individuals and for groups. Common issues include:

• Work style differences
• Supervisory style differences
• Issues surrounding a grievance
• Any issue affecting a working relationship between co-workers that cannot be resolved on their own or with a supervisor.

The first step in the process is to talk with your HR Representative. Your issue will be confidentially screened to ensure that the issue is appropriate for mediation.

Who are the Mediators?
The mediators are JMU faculty and staff who have been nominated, selected, and highly trained (some to the VA Supreme Court Certification level) to serve as mediators. Their job will be to assist fellow employees in arriving at their own solutions.

Confidentiality
All topics discussed in the mediation session are confidential. The agreement written by the parties is not confidential, but it will not be discussed or published except on a "need-to-know" basis.

If you would like more information, or to access JMU Employee Mediation Services, please contact Melinda Hardwick, HR Representative, at (540) 568-3968, or the HR Service Center at (540) 568-6165.