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The Ombuds Can
- Listen carefully to your concerns
- Offer information about Northeastern University policies and procedures
- Help you to explore and evaluate options when you are unsure how to proceed
- Refer you to appropriate university resources
- Coach you in preparation for a difficult conversation
- Look into a concern with your permission, by gathering information or talking with other parties
- Engage in shuttle diplomacy to facilitate productive communication
- Conduct informal mediation to resolve issues constructively
- Facilitate discussions for teams or groups
- Give feedback to the University about systemic issues
The Ombuds Cannot
- Make decisions for others
- Make, change, or set aside policies
- Provide legal advice or psychological counseling
- Serve as agent of notice for Northeastern
- Take sides in any dispute
- Participate in formal adjudicative or investigative processes
Topics You May Want to Discuss:
- Interpersonal conflicts
- Communication difficulties
- Institutional delays/non-responsiveness
- Career advancement, security, or satisfaction
- Access to resources
- Incivility or rudeness
- Untangling a complicated situation
- Planning to seek or make an apology
- Academic freedom
- Balancing work and family
- Potential conflicts of interest
- Concerns about a colleague
- Workplace harassment
- Ethical dilemmas
- Disciplinary actions
- Cultural misunderstandings
- Whether to file a formal grievance
- Anything else that is affecting you at work
