Podcasts, powerpoints and/or papers from the presentations are available to LEADR members and
'kon gres 2011 participants via a password protected area. Click here >>

Through case studies and role plays, explore the tools, skills and strategies mediators can contribute to this sector.

Just under 10% of Australia’s paid workforce is employed by NFP’s (ABS 2007). Conflict is not something this under resourced sector manages well. Far too frequently inept, manipulative and judgemental behaviours by board members and employees – who under different circumstances generally behave decently – remain unchallenged for far too long. These can include:

• Difficult board members who ambush and are judgemental
• Chairpersons who fear challenging difficult board member behaviour
• Board members who manipulate staff
• Staff who manipulate board members
• Professionals who rescue and tacitly support manipulative behaviour.

This is not a particularly profitable area for mediators in terms of income. In terms of what we can both provide and learn however – there is much that can be gained. Many mediators themselves already work for NFP’s. Many mediators engage with community and sporting organisations with these structures and problems

This presentation will include two case studies and a number of tools and strategies to promote discussion. It will also pose the question of what obligations, if any, do we as skilled practitioners have towards this vital and important community sector.

An exercise based on the case studies will allow small groups to discuss the proposed tools and strategies as well as their own and to give a brief presentation back to all participants.

Podcast: Listen to Tony talk about this session pre-kon gres (7 mins) >>