HR Insights

Sheri Brake, Principal, AccessHR In my work mediating workplace conflict, I have noticed that unsuccessful mediations almost always share the same underlying problem: the parties were not ready for mediation. Without readiness, mediation is little more than an expensive conversation. Recently, I initiated a mediation between senior executives. It failed. Despite an extensive pre-mediation process…

Today, workplace mental health is on everyone’s mind. Research and data-driven evidence have confirmed the relationship between mental health and our workplaces. Employees should be able to work to their potential without a negative impact on their mental health, and employers are obligated to ensure the workplace is not detrimental to wellness. When we meet…

Don’t let gossip wash investigation efforts down the drain A positive workplace culture thrives on good communication, collaboration, and a shared purpose.  Unfortunately, this can be easily disrupted by harassment, bullying, and discrimination.  Many organizations don’t know how to deal with these types of behaviours and find it easier to ignore them.  Over time, this…

HR Professionals, we need to talk.  There is a look that I recognize on the faces of my HR colleagues when I broach the topic of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB). The look that says, “I’m not going to be the one to go there.”  I know this look because I have worn this…