As a company, Quell Training are always asked ‘Why would I need to train my staff in Conflict Management?’ We also frequently hear comments such as ‘Our company doesn’t face any form of abuse’ or ‘ none of my staff report any form of abuse to me!’
The truth is Conflict Management training is an umbrella phrase that encompasses a range of areas which affect most companies. These include Lone working, Personal safety and dealing with aggressive behaviour both internally and externally. Recent statistics from companies suggest conflict within the workplace is on the increase and the world is becoming more hostile.
As an active training provider in many different regions both North & South of Ireland, we see evidence of people becoming more frustrated and impatient with each other or a service provider. This leads to further frustration, anger then aggression resulting in someone innocent or not being assaulted when actions spiral out of control.
To answer the question ‘Why choose Conflict Management training for your staff?’ consider this:
Quell was asked to meet with board members of a large organisation recently to outline the benefits of investing in Lone Working training for their staff. We presented the problems their staff faced and also how more defined primary measures (polices) could give clear guidance to staff. The Finance Director was sceptical and posed the question ‘In the midst of an economic downturn is this really a necessary expense?’
My answer was clear and brief. The cost for all staff to be fully trained and certificated, would be a small fraction of the cost of a claim brought by a member of staff who has not been given a policy to follow or been adequately trained. The repercussions of a damaged reputation of a company who neglects their duty of care cannot be underestimated. Not to mention the unwanted increase of Health & Safety and Insurance company inspections that would ensue from one incident.
The statement was not intended to scaremonger or force the company to rush into the training, it was rather a truthful fact. Many professional companies are facing an increase in stress and absenteeism whilst endeavouring to maintain their market position in a recession. Staff performance and corporate image are of paramount importance and investing in training can be the key to success.
Training with the company commenced. Two weeks later an incident involving a member of staff who had completed the training occurred. As a result of the staff member following a defined policy and given that registered training records were in place the company successfully defended a claim of litigation.
For more information on why your company should choose Conflict Management training with us, please call a member of our team.