MWI

Not every workplace concern makes its way to leadership. And even when concerns are raised, they may be viewed as isolated incidents rather than part of a larger pattern. That's one reason organizational ombuds programs can be so valuable. In addition to helping individuals work through concerns and consider their options, ombuds can identify recurring themes and share that information with leadership without compromising confidentiality. Sometimes those themes point to communication challenges, unclear policies, or practices that aren't working as intended. Having that additional perspective can help leaders better understand what's happening in their organization and where they might want to take a closer look. #MissionMonday #OrganizationalOmbuds #Leadership

We're proud to see MWI Executive Director Chuck Doran featured in a new Forbes Business Council article on how leaders can handle team disagreements without losing trust. Chuck shares a perspective central to our work at MWI: Conflict isn't necessarily bad. When approached constructively, it can create opportunities to learn, grow, and strengthen relationships. As Chuck points out, leaders can set the example by focusing on the problem rather than the person and showing that we can disagree without being disagreeable. Read the full article, including perspectives from other business leaders: https://lnkd.in/efT37gNC #Leadership #WorkplaceTrust

Ever wondered what it takes to become a mediator? Maybe you're considering a new career path, looking to add mediation skills to your current work, or simply curious about the field. MWI's free webinar with Chuck Doran, Everything You Wanted to Know About Mediation and How to Become a Mediator, is a great place to start! Join us to learn about mediation, MWI's 40-Hour Mediation Training Program, and what happens after training, including potential opportunities for qualified graduates to gain practical experience through MWI's mediator panel. Whether you're ready to take the next step or just exploring your options, bring your questions! 📅 Next session: November 4, 2026 💻 Free online webinar 🗓️ Can't make it? Additional dates are available. Register and choose a session that works for you: https://ow.ly/gC0h50ZYxSb #Mediation #MediationTraining #BecomeAMediator

Sometimes a small shift in how we approach a difficult situation can make a big difference. Over the past several months, we've shared practical Ombuds Tips for navigating workplace challenges, from managing disagreements and giving feedback to communicating through tension and change. Here are 12 reminders worth keeping handy. Which one resonates with you? #Ombuds #WorkplaceCommunication #ConflictResolution

Good mediation starts with good listening. But what does it really mean to listen with intention, especially when people disagree? Join MWI on November 5 for our next Mediator Roundtable, featuring Katrina Nobles, for a conversation about focused listening and how we can use listening skills to engage conflict more constructively. We'll explore how focused listening supports collaborative problem-solving, why constructive disagreement can lead to better outcomes, and the value of pausing before responding. 📅 November 5, 2026 | 12:30–1:30 p.m. ET 💻 Online via Zoom Register here: https://ow.ly/w3m250ZXRII #MediatorRoundtable #Mediation #ActiveListening #ProfessionalDevelopment

Already trained as a mediator? Ready to expand your skills into housing and eviction disputes? On November 18, MWI is offering its next Housing and Eviction Mediation Training. This advanced, specialized program is designed for mediators who have completed foundational mediation training and mediated at least five cases. Through discussion, exercises, role-plays, and simulations, participants will build on their existing mediation skills and learn how to navigate the unique challenges of housing and eviction disputes. And there may be opportunities to put those skills to work! Participants who successfully complete the training may have opportunities to mediate eviction cases through MWI’s Court Mediation Program. 📅 November 18, 2026 | 9:00 am to 5:00 pm ET 💻 Online via Zoom Learn more and register: https://ow.ly/qfTb50ZR2ZC #Mediation #MediationTraining #HousingMediation #DisputeResolution

Not every workplace concern needs a formal process. Sometimes people just need a place to talk through what's happening, better understand their options, and figure out what to do next. That's where TrustPoint comes in. Through MWI's organizational ombuds services, employees have access to a confidential, independent and informal resource to discuss workplace concerns. They can ask questions, consider different perspectives and explore possible next steps without pressure to take a particular course of action. At MWI, we believe people are better equipped to address challenges when they have the information, support and space to make their own decisions. That's an important part of our mission, and the work we do every day. #MissionMonday #TrustPoint #MWI #OrganizationalOmbuds #WorkplaceConflict

“I felt stuck here.” For mediator Peter Gorer, those four words can open the door to some of the most useful conversations that happen after a mediation. In his latest post for MWI, Peter looks at the value of a thoughtful debrief and what mediators can learn when they hear what co-mediators and observers noticed from elsewhere in the room. What worked? Where did the conversation shift? What might you try differently next time? The goal isn’t to pick apart a mediation or expect perfection. It’s to learn from it. Peter shares five practical ways to make those conversations more useful, whether you’re a newer mediator or have been doing this work for years. Read Peter’s blog post: https://ow.ly/Ic0t50ZW7TF #Mediation #MediatorDevelopment #ConflictResolution

Sometimes the most helpful question isn’t “What should I do?” It’s “What are my options?” Today is Ombuds Day, a day to raise awareness of the various ombuds roles, bring the profession together, and help more organizations understand the value of establishing ombuds programs grounded in recognized standards of practice. This year’s theme, Ombuds: Office of Options, captures something fundamental about the work. An organizational ombuds program gives people a way to surface concerns, navigate difficult situations, and address issues early. The ombuds provides a confidential, informal, independent, and impartial place for people to consider different perspectives and explore possible paths forward. The ombuds doesn’t make the decision. The choice remains with the individual. Today, we’re proud to recognize ombuds across different settings and the people and organizations who make this resource a reality. Happy Ombuds Day from MWI. #OmbudsDay #Ombuds #ConflictManagement