Virginia Tech has implemented a formal Mediation Program which is offered as a part of the Statewide Mediation Program through the Department of Employment Dispute (DEDR) in Richmond and the University. The Personnel Services Department will coordinate the mediation.
What Is Mediation?
Complaints arising in the workplace should be resolved fairly and as soon as possible. Most issues can be resolved through discussion, but alternatives are available when discussion is not effective. One alternative dispute resolution process is mediation.
Mediation is a procedure designed to resolve work-related conflict. It offers the parties the opportunity to sit down with two trained mediators who can help them talk with the person with whom they are having conflict. The parties create their own agreement; the mediators simply assist in the process. The mediators assist employees in conflict to discuss the issues in an open, honest, and confidential forum and to arrive at a mutually satisfactory agreement. If the parties reach an agreement, the mediators will help them clarify it in writing. Even if the parties can't come to an agreement, they should leave the mediation with a better understanding of the problem.
Who Is Eligible To Use Mediation?
All university classified salaried and wage employees, including probationary, may use the process to resolve work related issues. Any employment-related dispute can be mediated. It can be a problem with a boss, a co-worker, or a subordinate. Managers should encourage employees to participate in the mediation program, and for their efforts to try something new as well as their efforts to put time into working it out.
What Is Not Appropriate For Mediation?
Mediation is not intended to restrict management from taking appropriate actions to correct an employee's behavior or to address performance issues. Conversely, mediation is not intended to restrict employees from appropriately addressing work-related concerns and issues.
Is Mediation Confidential?
The mediation process is confidential--anything said during the process should remain in the room and should not be used by either party for any reason outside the mediation room. Both the mediators and the participants must agree that they will respect that confidentiality before the mediation session begins. Unless the supervisor is also part of the mediation, the terms of the agreement are shared only with the mediation program representative; it is not shared with the supervisor or other management personnel within the university.
Is Mediation Voluntary?
Participation in mediation is voluntary. Employees cannot be required to participate and at any time during the process, they are free to stop the process.
What About Mediation And The State Grievance Procedure?
Mediation is independent of any grievance rights a classified non-probationary employee may have. The grievance procedure is a formal process through which employees may bring their concerns to upper levels of management. A request for mediation may be made at any time, even during the course of a grievance. If the parties agree to mediate, an extension of the time periods may be granted at the appropriate stage of the grievance process for the mediation to occur. Requests for grievance extensions must be coordinated by the mediation program administrator at Virginia Tech and DEDR in order that deadlines may be extended when necessary.
Who Schedules The Mediation?
The mediation program administrator at Virginia Tech will coordinate and schedule the mediation. Virginia Tech mediators may be used unless you request mediators from outside the agency.
How Do I Get More Information About Mediation?
If you would like more information about mediation, you may contact the Personnel Services Department at (540) 231-5303.