Staff Ombuds Office 2016-2018 Biennial Report Released

October 23, 2018

Last week the Staff Ombuds Office released its 2016-2018 Biennial Report.  Based on aggregate, non-identifiable data from 452 employees who used Ombuds services, the report provides information and analysis about the primary workplace concerns of employees as well as new systemic recommendations for the campus to consider.

Workplace civility remains the top concern, and in this report the office takes a closer look by providing analysis and research on the impact of incivility in the workplace.  The report also identifies and discusses several systemic issues and offers recommendations, including:

  • Expanding performance management to include evaluation of conduct
  • Providing upward feedback mechanisms to address workplace concerns
  • Eliminating inequities caused by staff shortages
  • Creating constructive performance feedback mechanisms for student workers 

“By increasing understanding around issues that impact staff and working together to find systemic solutions, we are better able to achieve the Chancellor’s goal: to build a community in which every individual and group on our campus feels welcomed and valued,” wrote Sara Thacker, Director of the Staff Ombuds Office.

On a daily basis, the Staff Ombuds Offices works with employees to increase their conflict resolution capacities by providing conflict analysis, conflict coaching, and exploring options and strategies enable employees to effectively handle workplace problems.  Based on anonymous assessment of services surveys, 96% of employees stated that they were better able to handle their issue following discussion with the Ombudsperson and 99% stated that they would use the Staff Ombuds Office again or refer others.  “The Ombudsperson helped me articulate my thoughts in a professional and constructive manner.  I felt very comfortable talking to the Ombudsperson and appreciate the strategies I was able to learn and implement at work,” wrote one survey respondent. 

The Staff Ombuds Office will be discussing its data, systemic issues, and recommendations to enhance the work environment with campus groups and leadership.  Any department or unit that would like a presentation about Ombuds services or its report can contact the Staff Ombuds Office at (510) 642-7823. 

Current and past reports are also available on the Staff Omdbuds Office website, under the Reports tab.