16 September 2024 Feedback

Topics Covered: Preliminary Meetings & Emotion Management – Confidentiality – Speaking Time Fairness**

Last night’s workshop was once again a great success, fully booked!

In the first part of the evening, we worked on a case inspired by a real situation at the workplace involving a disagreement between a manager and a subordinate in a digital marketing company. 

At the end of this role-play, each participant shared their observations. These insights highlighted several key aspects of the mediation process, which were then discussed in the second part of the evening, with the following summaries:

• Confidentiality: Essentially, how should one respond to an external request regarding the outcome of a mediation? Discussions were particularly intense, given that mediation information is not disclosed without the parties' consent. Additionally, the definition of a “successful mediation” was debated. Does it simply mean the process was completed, or does it imply a mutual agreement was reached, which is much harder to assess due to the complex nature of conflicts?

• Preliminary Meetings and Emotion Management:  Opinions on the content of these meetings varied widely. Some propose limiting these meetings to clarifying the mediation process and ensuring understanding by the parties before the main session, while others suggest delving deeper into each party’s situation beforehand. There was also discussion on using these meetings as a way to alleviate pressure on participants by allowing them to express their emotions in advance. In conclusion, the diversity of proposed approaches reflects different styles and methods, highlighting the richness of possible options.

• Speaking Time Fair balance: Is it really necessary to strictly adhere to equal speaking time, or should it depend on the parties’ ability to present their situation concisely? While general consensus leans toward fairness between parties, it was noted that a relative fairness, considering individual differences, is more appropriate. The key is that each party can express themselves according to their needs. With a touch of humor, one participant mentioned a colleague whose wall poster showed an index finger pointing to a specific spot, encouraging clients to embrace the art of ultimate conciseness with the famous "Go straight to the point!”

It was an enriching evening, and Terraxis would like to warmly thank all the participants for their involvement and contributions.

Terraxis will organize the first workshop of 2025 in January.

Stay tuned!