Category: Article
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In praise of compassion
In praise of compassion It’s quite common for visitors to share their concerns about colleagues with me: around one third of the people who come to see me do so to talk about colleagues who are struggling. “I’m worried about a colleague from another group. She hasn’t been herself lately. She told me about tensions
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When you don’t know where to turn: the Ombud can help
When you don’t know where to turn: the Ombud can help The Ombud provides a safe and calm space where you can explore all possible avenues for resolving challenging situations and decide for yourself how to proceed. Questions, problems and conflicts are part and parcel of life, including at work. Finding the best way to
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Addressing a conflict is the first step towards resolving it
Addressing a conflict is the first step towards resolving it Conflicts at work are commonplace and are rarely a pleasant experience. Yet what could be more constructive than a difference of opinion? And what could be more inspiring than diversity? A conflict can escalate if recriminations take the place of questioning or honest communication. It
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How to get along better
How to get along better I often hear people say "I don't like conflict. I want to avoid it”, or “I don’t want to hear about it". When conflict arises, we often see it as a failure. In such cases, it is worth asking ourselves whether the conflict could have been avoided and whether the
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Why exploring your options is (so) important
Why exploring your options is (so) important When you feel stuck in a complicated situation, misunderstood or thrown off balance, it can be difficult to know how to react. Should you talk about it? To whom? What can you do if you fear the situation is getting worse? In these moments of uncertainty, it can
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The Ombud provides independent, impartial, informal and confidential support
The Ombud provides independent, impartial, informal and confidential support The CERN Ombud’s Office was established in 2010: the same time that the CERN Code of Conduct was published. Appointed by the Director-General, the CERN Ombud provides confidential advice; helps to resolve interpersonal disputes; listens to, examines and shares problems and concerns; and helps people apply
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Social interaction, an essential factor for well-being at work
Social interaction, an essential factor for well-being at work The initiative to come and see the Ombud often arises from a feeling of being alone and isolated, or even excluded from a team or a network of relationships. A lack of support from colleagues or managers or a lack of positive interaction can become a
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How to prevent tensions from escalating
How to prevent tensions from escalating Whatever our role or hierarchical position at CERN, we can all contribute to fostering a more respectful and collaborative work environment. Although conflict resolution calls for specific skills to be developed, there are several things we can all do, like being alert to the early signs of tensions brewing,
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The benefits of collaborative communication
The benefits of collaborative communication Although humans are naturally collaborative, collaboration can sometimes require a conscious effort. In an environment of different generations, professions and cultures, such as that of an international organisation like CERN, collaboration can be as much a challenge as an asset. In my first year as Ombud, I have become aware
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The power of mediation
The power of mediation Mediation in the workplace has many advantages, in both the short and the long term. Conflict is a natural and inevitable part of working life. A conflict may seem trivial and unimportant at first but, over time, a “blame game” can develop, with each party making accusations about the other. The