Working with you to find solutions
Mediations, Investigations, Negotiations and Conflict Coaching for workplaces
Services
Finding a practical solution to solve workplace problems caused by conflict is our objective. We use mediation, investigation, negotiation and conflict coaching techniques with all parties to find the most workable solution in a cost-effective manner.
Matters of conflict are often very complex issues and require experienced practitioners who specialise in solving conflict to successfully navigate and effective outcome.
We work with individuals or teams to manage dysfunctional relationships. By improving communication, raising awareness of other people’s perspectives and developing emotional intelligence, we find success in overcoming conflict.
Forbes Magazine reports that the skill most leaders wish they had but don’t is the ability to manage conflict. Our staff have led significant teams in complex organisations and can assist with policy and design, workplace structure reviews and personal training for leaders to ensure the development of conflict resilient organisations.
Investigation
Highly skilled and experienced staff investigate issues by conducting confidential inquiries into the behaviour of staff in the workplace. We use an evidence based approach to consider issues such as:
-
Fraud
-
Bullying and harassment
-
Sexual harassment and discrimination
We investigate all aspects of an issue and make appropriate recommendations on a course of action that complies with appropriate industrial legislation. Our investigators have addressed ICAC referrals and issues for the NSW Fair Work Commission.
​
Our objective is also to allow the organisation to improve so we will always provide suggestions and observations on other issues which arise. Using our experience as senior managers from other organisations, qualifications in business and law, we often see things from a different perspective which ultimately add value.
-
Whistleblower issues
-
Breaches of codes of conduct or policies
-
Any other matter requiring a review or an impartial consideration of the facts
Our work in mediation involves facilitating discussions between two or more parties who have a disagreement; usually involving a workplace-related issue. It can also be about other interpersonal conflicts The aim of the process is to arrive at a result which is acceptable to all parties and to avoid the time and expense associated with going to court. The process is voluntary and confidential and is managed quickly and in a cost effective way.
The objective is to remove the risk that the conflict presents as quickly as possible. Stopping the negativity associated with conflict is important and we look to turn the conflict into a positive. This process is complex and requires a skilled and experienced practitioner with national accreditation. As well as solving the problem, our team will work with the organisation to assist with building conflict resilience for the future which has proven extremely beneficial.
The types of issues we mediate on include:
-
Bullying and harassment
-
Sexual harassment and discrimination
-
Leadership/management issues
-
Interpersonal conflict
-
Business disputes
-
Roles and responsibilities
-
Breaches of the code of conduct or policies.
Mediation
Sometimes Mediation is not the right tool to manage a dispute. Professional Mediation practitioners are qualified, skilled and experienced in a range of areas of conflict resolution management and can adapt to ensure the best chance of finding a successful and acceptable outcome.
Negotiation
"Negotiation is the process by which two or more parties who perceive a difference in interests of perspective, attempt to reach an agreement." Malhoutra 2016.
​
Whether the conflict is a contract dispute within the workplace or a commercial arrangement, or if it's a legal issue about damages or if it's about the content of a will; the conflict is always about people. As qualified and experienced practitioners graduated from the Harvard law school negotiation training program, we work with people through the principles, strategies and tactics to effectively negotiate acceptable outcomes to often very complex and emotional circumstances.
​
We use a proven methodology to negotiate successfully:
-
Separate the people from the problem
-
Focus on everyone’s interests instead of their positions
-
Find options which deliver mutual gain wherever possible
-
Establish an objective criteria.
This process is complex and requires a tailored approach to reaching an acceptable outcome. It is confidential and voluntary but offers a high degree of success even in the most difficult of circumstances.
Workplace conflict coaching is provided for individuals who have been or are involved in situations of conflict or dispute. Coaching might, for example, involve preparing staff for a mediation, or facilitating the return to work of a colleague involved in a conflict situation. Coaching can also be used to train staff to identify and manage future or reoccurring conflict in the workplace.
Professional Mediation has a particular focus on helping organisations become more conflict resilient and training for groups of people is available to assist in this area. This conflict resolution tool is generally conducted one on one over a number of sessions. This process is aimed at developing the emotional intelligence of staff and it amazing how successful it is in resolving long term problems. This is a highly specialised skill set and requires well credentialled and experienced practitioners following the international CINERGY ® conflict resolution model.
Conflict Coaching
Let us assist you...
Testimonials
"I have had a very good experience with David Toll’s service to our organisation in Mediation and Investigation. He was timely, efficient, an excellent communicator and achieved the results we wanted. The feedback from the staff he dealt with was also very good."
​
Senior HR Manager
NSW Government Department
"David was very approachable and listened to the issues involved in our workplace conflict. He was able to provide some advice which helped us for the future and then was extremely helpful in delivering outcomes in the mediation he conducted for us."
​
CEO, NFP
"We have engaged David’s services through professional mediation for both mediations and investigations. He is always responsive and delivers quality outcomes in both areas. He manages the really difficult things very well and gets great outcomes. We have used his services over a long time for a range of difficult matters involving internal conflict."
​
Manager People & Culture
NSW Local Government
"I found David to be very approachable, knowledgeable and helpful with our problem. He quickly engaged with a difficult matter and was able to facilitate a mediation which I’m pleased to say has resulted in a long-term solution. Because he has been experienced in the sector, he grasped the key issues and knew how to navigate a complex circumstance. I recommend his services."
​
HR Manager
University Sector
"We engaged David to mediate an issue between our CEO and a senior staff member which was a long-standing problem for the board. David mediated the issues with the parties and followed up with the staff to make sure the agreed outcomes from the mediation were still being followed. He was very professional and solved the problem for our business. His background was very helpful because he understood the issues in the right context."
​
Board Director
NSW Sporting Organisation