“Soms heb je het idee dat je geen kant op kunt.”

Mediation

Nobody likes conflicts, especially when they involve people we see every day, like colleagues. 

That’s why mediation is such a great alternative. It’s a voluntary and confidential process where  parties involved work together, guided by an independent and neutral mediator. The aim? To find a fair solution that truly works for everyone involved. Instead of a judge making decisions for you, mediation gives you the chance to reach an agreement that respects your needs and concerns.  

For more information about the various situations where mediation can help: view Workplace mediation and Case studies.

Conversations take place at the pleasant location of the Van Eeghenlaan in Amsterdam. In this setting, all interests and possible outcomes will be investigated until a solution is found that actually feels good. View: Contact.

 

My approach:

As a DNV-certified and MfN-registered mediator, I have developed a businesslike and efficient approach, that suits professionals with limited time to spare. A key element of my method is the Harvard negotiation model, which enables firm yet respectful negotiations, based on interests rather than fixed positions. ‘Agree to disagree’ can be a necessary step to find common ground on other subjects of interest. 

Around 90-95% of cases reach a successful resolution when parties are truly committed to resolution. Even in situations where not every issue gets solved, people still walk away with a renewed sense of communication and understanding.

 

HR Managers and start of a mediation

I often notice, that for (HR) Managers, it can be a great relief to step out of the role of process lead, during a mediation process. It allows them to fully focus on their connection with the employee or the conversations in the mediation itself if they are participant.

For the employee, it is reassuring to have an independent third party guiding the process, ensuring that both sides have an equal opportunity to speak out and be heard.

 

Mediation for schools

In addition to business and workplace mediation, I have also been mediating in schools in recent years. By the time I step in, teachers, students, parents and school management have usually already tried to resolve the issue themselves for quite some time – without success. Through individual preliminary conversations and (often just) one joint session, where we address the real issues at stake, the understanding for each other and the relationship is restored.

Parent After Mediation With Other Parents and the School Principal

“I’m amazed that we managed to resolve everything in just one session. That was thanks to your calm presence and attention to everyone’s perspective and emotions. And I apologize for getting so emotional—it’s just tough when your child isn’t doing well.”

 

What is the timeframe of a mediation?

It depends on the number of people involved and how complex the situation is. But in most cases, conflicts are resolved in just two or three sessions, along with a one-on-one conversation at the start.

Overall, mediation helps tackle conflicts as they happen, rather than dragging things out for months or even years. It saves time, money, and a lot of stress. Compared to legal battles, you will find it quicker, more affordable, and—most importantly—more human.

mediation bedrijfsleven

“People who wade into discomfort and vulnerability and tell the truth about their stories are the real badasses.” Brené Brown, hoogleraar aan de Universiteit van Houston, onder meer bekend om haar haar TED talk, “The Power of Vulnerability.”