Many disputes arise out of a failure by either party or both parties to communicate, understand or consider the needs and interests of the other.
People tend to simply focus on “Who is right and who is wrong?” This makes them incapable of considering the possibility that both may have a legitimate point of view.
At Mediate 2 Agree, we encourage parties to look at their dispute using different lenses. “The benefit of this approach isn’t in the answers you get but the questions you ask”.
What in their opinion would be a mutually acceptable solution? Will that solution be a fair option that will be conducive to a good working relationship? How do you think your colleague would feel if this solution was implemented? In your opinion what could be the negative aspects of such an option?
By asking parties to evaluate multiple options, scenarios, by asking them to listen and actually hear the other party’s perspective, they gain a better understanding of the issues which increases their ability to work together towards a mutually acceptable resolution
