Arbitration & Mediation

A Word to Employers - Don?t train ?In-house? mediators for employment disputes.

By Christopher Annunziata

Andrea Bucklow of The Mediation Times has an interesting post imploring businesses to resist the temptation to train in-house “mediators” to resolve HR and employment related disputes. While the idea may come across as protectionist, Amanda makes some very important and interesting points that counsel against the concept.

I think the most salient argument against in-house “mediators” is the simple fact that few reasonable persons would consider a “company mediator” as impartial or believe that information discussed in a mediation session would remain confidential.   All Most of the people I know who work for large corporations view HR employees as corporate drones who have the company’s best interest at heart.  “In-house mediators” would likely be viewed no differently.

I fully understand that in this business and economic environment, it is a tough sell to hire an outside consultant.   She has some suggestions for better dealing with internal disputes that might work.  However, as Amanda puts it,

[when a] problem arises which is too sensitive or too complex to deal with internally then seek out an independent mediator who can bring fresh eyes, new perspective, impartiality and experience to the issues and who will also gain the respect and trust of those involved.

Full post as published by CKA Mediation and Arbitration Services Blog on April 14, 2009 (boomark / email).