Mediation is the best way to resolve a deadlocked conflict. It means that with the help of an impartial, neutral conflict professional – the mediator – you engage in a conversation with the person(s) with whom you are experiencing a conflict; confidentially and voluntarily. For example, in the case of a difficult cooperation within a team, a lingering labor conflict with a supervisor or employee, or a business conflict with a customer, supplier or partner. Mediation is more effective, cheaper and faster than fighting through lawyers. Additional benefit: without (further) damaging relationships and reputations.
Our working method
We are accredited MfN mediators. The MfN stands for Mediators Federation of the Netherlands and stands for quality and diligence. As legal mediators, we have a pragmatic and empathetic approach. We always look for the balance between the emotional impact of the conflict and the practical, business side of the issue. Our mission: to establish open, respectful dialogues with results. Working with you to find a good and lasting solution to your conflict.
How can I use mediation?
Generally speaking, the sooner you call in a mediator in cases of conflict, resistance and irritation, the greater the chance of success.
Contact us when:
- as a manager you are (un)consciously building up a file on a specific employee
- you feel as an employee that you are not being taken seriously, for example in the case of illness or assessment
- as a colleague, you constantly clash with one or more other colleagues
- you feel as a business partner that the chemistry is out of the partnership
In different roles, there may be different signals of friction or conflict. Mediation is not the best solution in every case. Feel free to call or email for a no-obligation conversation with us as a sounding board. The “meter” really doesn’t start running right away. Important consideration of whether mediation makes sense is to consider whether you:
- are willing to open up to the (opinion of the) other party
- finds it more important to reach a solution than to prove yourself right
When you conclude that you would like to use a mediator in the conflict, it is obviously important that the other party or parties also agree to this. For tips, see “how to get the other person to the table. If you are unsure about mediation, do not hesitate to contact one of us personally via email or by phone. This is free of charge, you commit to nothing and, if you wish, you can remain anonymous.
How do I get the other person to the table?
You are ready for a mediation or dialogue intervention, but are or are the other people involved?
Sometimes mediation is advised to you, for example by the company doctor, case manager, HR/personnel, lawyer or court official. Then the other side is often already informed and you must agree together on the choice of mediator.
When this is not the case, it is often best to approach the other party or parties themselves with a desire to engage in conversation with the help of a third party. This can be done by phone or by e-mail. This gives the other(s) the opportunity to take in information and think about it. For example, call one or two days later to hear if the other person likes your proposal.
Are you unable to get the other person to the table, or does mediation sound too formal or heavy in your ears? Then there are two more options:
- we will work only with you, in the form of conflict coaching
- you go for neutral dialogue guidance, read more about this option under dialogue guidance
Mediation is more effective, cheaper and faster than fighting through lawyers.
Our Services
Mediation Amsterdam mediates and assists in the following areas
