From conflict…
to connection

Organizational Mediation & Dispute Resolution

Workplace conflict can drain energy, damage relationships, and disrupt productivity. At MetroWest Mediation Services, we know that simply putting two people in a room to “work it out” isn’t always the best approach. That’s why we’ve developed Conflict Allies™ — a supportive, step-by-step process that helps employees feel heard, supported, and ready for productive conversation.

How It Works

1. Private Support
   Each participant meets with a dedicated Conflict Ally™ who listens, understands, and helps them clarify their needs.

2. Behind-the-Scenes Collaboration
   Allies compare insights, identify areas of agreement, and map out the best starting points.

3. Productive Mediation
   We start where agreement is most likely, creating momentum toward resolution.

Key Benefits

A New Approach: Conflict Allies

Instead of jumping straight into mediation, each participant is paired with their own Conflict Ally™ — an experienced mediator who meets with them privately to understand their perspective, listen empathetically, and identify what they need from the other party. These private meetings create trust, reduce fear, and prepare both sides for constructive dialogue.

Conflict Allies then collaborate behind the scenes, sharing insights, comparing requests, and identifying topics most likely to lead to agreement. This preparation means that when mediation happens, the conversation starts in areas of common ground — building momentum and lowering tension.

Why It Works

• Builds trust before mediation – Participants know their mediator, feel supported, and enter the room less alone.

• Creates realistic expectations – We work toward progress, not perfection, aiming to make situations 10–20% better as a starting point.

• Encourages authentic conversation – The personal connection helps participants share openly, even about difficult topics.

• Keeps people engaged – Our process has dramatically reduced dropouts, even in high-stakes or emotionally charged situations.

Proven Results

Organizations using Conflict Allies have reported stronger participation, meaningful partial agreements, and a noticeable decrease in tension between staff. Participants often say they feel “deeply heard” and “in good hands,” and appreciate that the process focuses on their needs while still aiming for resolution.

IDEAL FOR:

• Conflict between a supervisor and supervisee(s)

• Disputes within teams or boards

• Tension among colleagues

• Issues between board members and staff

Organizational Dispute Resolution Team