Services
Every situation is unique, but the elements of resolving them are often the same. We will help you assess options and guide you through a conflict resolution process using the most effective method, or combination of methods, to address your specific situation.
Mediation
We have helped thousands of clients reach agreement through mediation. In fact, In-Accord’s success rate for achieving a written agreement is an impressive 85%. The best way to measure the success of mediation, however, is through improved relationships, better communication, enhanced work environments and more satisfied staff. We are particularly proud of our successful track record in these areas.
Would you like to know more about the mediation experience? Visit our FAQ page.
In-Accord Mediation Clients
Like most folks, I was a bit skeptical about the whole idea of bringing in a third party to help resolve our conflict, but I found the process with In-Accord to be productive and positive. Mr. Sheesley didn't magically make our issues go away, but he did provide a safe, structured atmosphere for some very constructive conversation. He helped us clarify the issues and led us to a better understanding of the underlying cause of some of our problems. Well worth the time and effort. I wouldn't hesitate to call on In-Accord again if a similar situation arises.
- Gene Skrine
Team Leader
US Forest Service
Facilitation
In-Accord can help your group accomplish more while actively building stronger relationships. Assisting groups dealing with difficult topics is our specialty. Whether it’s a staff meeting where contentious issues are discussed or a board retreat to develop next year’s strategies, In-Accord can make the process effective and efficient. Groups leave the process with concrete tasks and solutions. While the facilitation process focuses on positive communication, it also generates participant buy-in and sign-off on the results.
In-Accord Facilitation Clients
In-Accord's professionalism and responsiveness is refreshing. They really took the time to understand our needs and the needs of the parties involved in the dispute, and their straightforward approach really helped move the process along.
- Eric King
Neighborhood Livability Services Manager
Office of Neighborhood Involvement
City of Portland
Conflict Resolution Training
Over years of offering resolution services, clients have repeatedly asked for more training for their employees. Because conflict occurs in almost every organization, savvy employers know that helping staff manage it not only boosts morale, it also improves productivity and efficiency. In response to these training requests, In-Accord has developed conflict resolution and mediation trainings for organizations interested in developing in-house expertise. Trainings are tailored to the organization’s particular needs. Our approach to training is based on experiential learning designed to engage participants through interactive and collaborative team-building activities.
Mr. Sheesley is articulate, engaging, succinct and organized, and I enjoyed his sense of humor. He responded well and quickly to every situation and comment and was able to go with the moment, yet it all went seamlessly. I certainly walked away with a good refresher and reminder of the ‘effective communication’ concepts.
- Christina Renck
Director of Training & Development and Human Resources/Labor Consultant
United Employers Association
These custom-designed workshops help participants learn how to harness and control conflict, while enhancing communication. Our hands-on approach enables participants to hear, see and try the skills being presented. Often humor is employed to encourage an amicable tone as participants improve their conflict coping skills.
Training Modules
The following training modules offered by In-Accord stand alone or can be presented in combination. The hours noted are suggested minimums.
Complete Mediation Training: A full immersion, 40-hour training program in which participants learn and practice every dimension of professional mediation work. (40 hours)
In-Accord provided a training for our staff geared to our specific needs. The facilitation by Chris Sheesley was sensitive and responsive to the various personalities of those present.
- Eileene Zimmer
Program Manager
Neighborhood House
Negotiation Success: Understand basic bargaining through advanced collaboration. Learn how to assess situations, deflect hardball tactics and obtain concessions. Discover and experience principled negotiation. (8 hours)
Comprehending Conflict: Demystify and manage discord by understanding conflict theory. Explore the levels, impacts and benefits of conflict. Also, learn the spectrum of conflict resolution options available. (2 hours)
Communication Under Stress: Advanced skills for effective communication. Includes how to ask penetrating questions, be fully ‘present’ and ultimately be heard more effectively. (2 hours)
Issues, Interests & Icebergs: Understand the fundamental keys to effective conflict resolution. Learn how to identify and apply underlying interests to create collaborative agreements. Includes the essential art of reframing. (2 hours)
Group Facilitation Tips and Tricks: Sophisticated facilitation tools for large groups are experienced first hand in this training. Learn sophisticated facilitation techniques to help groups (e.g. work teams, boards, etc.) navigate through decision making processes. Participants get to experience the tools through simulation. (8 hours)
Conflict Styles in Organizations: Develop a deeper understanding and have direct experience with the five dominate conflict resolution techniques for both individuals and organizations. Emphasis placed on collaboration. (3 hours)
Effective, Painless Feedback: Providing feedback in a positive, non-confrontational way is an essential skill for managers and coworkers alike. This program helps people learn and practice new techniques for offering feedback comfortably. (4 hours)
In-Accord Training Clients
Fees
$125/hour
There is a four hour minimum charge. Travel outside the Portland metro area is billable at half the hourly rate.
Training fees are variable. Please contact us for a proposal.
I have been a client of In-Accord’s services both as an HR professional and as a participant in a mediation event. These are often very sensitive circumstances with great potential for job loss and litigation. I found their services to be compassionately handled and the to-do-list practical from initial contact through follow-up. If working together is at all possible, In-Accord’s approach to mediation services will chart a course towards resolution.
- Colleen Storms
Financial Manager
Longview Housing Authority