Step 1: Can EiroBridge Help?

In this initial step, we are really focused on understanding what it is that you need, so that we can determine whether we can even help. For example, is it a conflict between two individuals, or a conflict between departments? Or, is it a larger systemic issue where you are seeing conflict over and over, and want help in implementing changes to prevent and better handle conflicts?

We will tell you whether or not we think EiroBridge can help. If we don't think we can help, we will do our best to refer you to resources that we believe would be better suited to help you. If we do think we can help, we'll move on to the next step with you.

Step 2: Is Everyone Involved Open to EiroBridge’s Help (One-on-One Process Meetings)?

Given the fact that Self Determination is fundamental to this work, we first meet with each person or group involved (usually one-on-one) to discuss our approach and the general process. We think of these as our “Process Meetings,” though it’s not all about logistics. Once individuals are equipped with this information, it is then up to each of them to decide whether they want to move forward, and, if so, what that will involve. These initial Process Meetings usually last around 30 minutes and are often done by phone or video-conferencing, though they are sometimes done in person.

Step 3: One-on-One Substantive Meetings.

Assuming everyone has agreed to participate, then we get to work, starting with One-on-One Substantive Meetings where the mediator is meeting with each party or group individually. Our goal here is to get a better sense of perspectives and continue working toward better clarity and understanding for each person involved. These One-on-One Substantive Meetings usually last between one and two hours each, and they can be done by phone, video-conference or in person (at EiroBridge’s office, client sites, or other off-site locations).

Step 4: Group Meeting.

Once the One-on-One Substantive Meetings are completed, and assuming everyone involved still wants to proceed, then we move to a Group Meeting where the parties meet with each other and the mediator(s). The purpose of this Group Meeting is to continue working toward better clarity and understanding for each person involved. Each party is able to share their perspectives and to hear that reflected back to them. It’s through this process that, often, parties begin to recognize each other in a way that has not happened before (or at least not in a long time). The parties remain in control of determining how they will move forward, individually and collectively. Often, there is just one Group Meeting, though more are possible if desired and needed. The Group Meeting usually lasts between two and three hours and they can be done by phone, video-conference or in person (at EiroBridge’s office, client sites, or other off-site locations).

In a conflict involving two individuals, it typically takes 10-15 business days to work through our entire mediation process, from beginning to end, and a total of no more than six hours for each party (though never more than three hours at any one step).