A business can resolve disputes with employees or former employees through several steps that aim to maintain professionalism and avoid costly litigation. These include:
- Open communication: Encourage employees to raise concerns directly
- Internal resolution: try to address the issue informally through direct communication, HR intervention, or internal grievance procedures.
- Formal procedures: If informal discussions don’t work, move to more formal steps such as mediation or conciliation .
- External assistance: In unresolved cases, external dispute resolution services can be involved. Both parties present their case in court, and a judge or jury resolves the dispute.
Throughout the process, maintaining proper documentation, following company policies, and seeking legal advice is essential to ensure compliance with labor laws and protect the business’s interests.