Path to Mediation/Facilitation

Considering a mediation or facilitated conversation with a colleague, supervisor, or team? Or considering referring someone who you think may benefit from these conversations? Either way, the best first step is to individually schedule an initial appointment. Meeting separately with each individual is an established ombuds best practice and helps ensure the process is appropriate, voluntary, and constructive.

Whether you’re considering participating in a mediation/facilitation yourself or are talking to someone who wants to know more about what to expect before reaching out, the What to Expect page provides some additional context about the process our team uses.  

Before hosting any kind of facilitation or mediation, the Ombuds will meet with all parties individually. In these individual meetings, we will:

• discuss your goals and concerns,
• clarify what a facilitated conversation or mediation can—and cannot—provide,
• explore a range of options for moving forward,  
• assess whether a joint meeting would support everyone’s needs and work context, and
• strategize on how best to engage the other person/people. 

After individual conversations, the Ombuds will work with all involved parties to determine next steps, which may include preparation for a joint session, additional individual conversations, or exploring alternative paths that may better support your situation.