workplace conflict
Conflict happens in every workplace. However, when conflict takes the form of bullying or harassment, or interferes with your employees’ well-being and productivity, it is time to take action. We offer solutions to clear away workplace conflict.
how we can help
Our investigators have extensive experience in investigations in both union and non-union workplaces. There is no one-size-fits-all, so each investigation is tailored to meet our client’s needs. We conduct procedurally fair, independent investigations, delivering prompt and practical reports. We take a trauma-informed approach when conducting investigations and have experience across industries in the public and private sector.
types of complaints
- sexual harassment
- sexual violence
- hostile work environment
- bullying and psychological harassment
- policy breaches
- statutory violations
- racial harassment and discrimination
- code of conduct violations and other employee misconduct
- systemic discrimination
- abuse of authority
- conflict of interest
- workplace violence & harassment investigations under the Canada Labour Code
our approach
- timely & thorough
- procedural fairness & natural justice
- focus & clarity of scope
- proportionality & flexibility
- preserving working relationships
- trauma-informed
- cultural humility
industry experience
Our team has conducted workplace investigations across a wide variety of industries including:
- post-secondary (staff, faculty and student misconduct)
- municipal and provincial government and public sector
- K-12 education
- mining
- manufacturing
- retail
- First Nations and Indigenous organizations
- banking
- healthcare
- and more
other services
Sometimes a workplace investigation is not the right approach. We have a wide variety of offerings to prevent and/or manage conflict in the workplace:
process advice
Conflict can be stressful and overwhelming, and it can be hard to know where to start. We work with our clients to determine what kind of process will be most effective in a specific situation.
environmental scans (workplace assessments)
These scans are used to identify and understand broad concerns or themes in a workplace by speaking with groups of people or individuals to gather useful information. This is often done where no complaint has been filed, with a proactive purpose.
conflict coaching
We work with the parties involved in a workplace conflict to give them skills and practical advice to deal with the conflict and feel more confident avoiding and preparing for other conflicts that may arise.
facilitated discussion
We facilitate discussions between the parties in a workplace conflict and help each to hear the other side and move toward a solution.
mediation
We act as mediators to assist the parties to define their needs, values, and interests and find agreeable solutions. To learn more about Forte Law’s mediations, click here.
StandUP Teams respectful workplace training
We train your whole team to understand how they can StandUP to workplace bullying and harassment as active bystanders and support a respectful workplace. Click here for more information on StandUP Teams training.
resources
Trauma-Informed Workplace Investigations – Five lessons from the trenches
5 traps to avoid so you can maintain a trauma-informed workplace investigation.
5 Tips for Successful Workplace Investigations
Key strategic tips to keep investigations on track and effectively deal with conflict.
Is Your Business Ready for a Harassment Complaint?
1 in 3 workers experience harassment. What are your duties?
client reviews
“ They deliver timely and professional processes and reports. They bring value by engaging with the people in our organization in a way that demonstrates an understanding of our institutional culture. I have received positive comments from stakeholders across our organization about Forte’s investigators including that they felt heard and respected throughout the process.”
Li-Jeen Broshko, General Counsel, SFU
“We use Forte Law regularly to conduct external investigations. Although it may sound basic, one of the most important factors for us in investigations is timeliness, which Forte has consistently delivered. I receive regular process updates and am never left wondering what is happening or when I might get a report. All of the reports I have received from Forte have been well thought out and professional and have provided the information and analysis needed by our internal decision makers.”
Sharon Woodburn, Executive Director HR, SD#36
contact us
get in touch to find out how we can help