Using a mediator, conciliator, or other third-party to help you work through disputes is a sound idea in just about any situation. And not just to get the conflict over with. Using a set process to solve problems gives you a specific course of action to follow when implemented into your company’s culture. If employees and others who work with your company know that you require some form of Conflict Resolution before you’ll head to court, they may think through issues and make efforts on their own to resolve issues before they get too far.
Mediation allows you to find agreements that work for both parties, instead of letting a court determine your fate. It usually costs less money, runs much more quickly, and makes both parties happier than letting a judge or jury decide the case. And lastly, the information produced during a Conflict Resolution session stays private; no court is involved, so sensitive information stays between you, the other party, and the mediator. Which should make your Board of Directors happy!