Category: Mediation

  • If you can’t get people to do anything, how to you resolve conflicts.

    In my leadership training on conflict resolution, I have the participates conduct a closed fist exercise.  The participants pair off.  One forms a fist and the other has three minutes to convince them to open their fists. In the debriefing time we discuss how they managed to convince the other to open their fists.   The…

  • FAQ: How to propose mediation?

    A Judge may recommend that the parties consider mediation or, more commonly, one party may simply propose, through their legal representatives to the other party and their legal representative, that the dispute be mediated. A proposal to mediate should not be seen as a weakness but merely as a willingness to explore the possibility of…

  • Listening is the best way to resolve conflicts.

    The better the information you have, the greater your chances of finding a workable solution.  Listen carefully to what others are saying, not judging until you hear everyone’s story.  Be aware of tone of voice, body language, and other clues.  Understand what each person is expressing – what he wants and what he is willing…

  • FAQ: How to propose mediation?

    How to Propose Mediation – Options A Judge may recommend that the parties consider mediation or, more commonly, one party may simply propose, through their legal representatives to the other party and their legal representative, that the dispute be mediated. A proposal to mediate should not be seen as a weakness but merely as a…

  • FAQ: Why you might not mediate?

    To Mediate or Not? The key issue is whether a party is ready to seriously attempt a negotiated settlement. If a party is insisting on pre-conditions to a mediation or sees the mediation as an opportunity to “send a message” rather than an opportunity to resolve, then there may be little prospect that a successful…

  • Negotiation Tips for resolving conflicts.

    Negotiation is an Important Skill Negotiation is an important skill in mediation or any conflict resolution. It is needed for the parties to come to an agreement and thereby resolve a conflict.  It doesn’t matter if the conflict developed at home or at work, or in any leadership situation.   Separate People from the Problem When…

  • FAQ: When is mediation appropriate?

    FAQ: When is mediation appropriate? Mediation can take place at any stage from before legal proceedings are issued up until trial and even after trial. Obviously, the earlier mediation takes place, the better chance of saving costs, avoiding publicity and possibly preserving future relations between the parties. However, at a later stage in proceedings mediation…

  • Being aware of others is important to conflict resolution

    Being Aware of Others is an Important Step to Resolve Conflicts Being aware of others is an important step to conflict resolution.  Being aware of others helps you adjust the situation for a good outcome.  It is important to be aware of their physical comfort and any other factors that might be affecting their emotions. …

  • FAQ: What is the role of the mediator?

    Role of the Mediator The role of the mediator is not set in stone. Typically the mediator acts as a neutral third party and facilitates rather than directs the process. At all times, the parties and not the mediator control the outcome of the process. Establish a Process A good mediator is somebody who is…

  • When are people most likely to do what you ask?

    When are people most likely to do what you ask?  (Especially if it is something they are not excited about!) ·     When they trust you ·     Experience shows you are a reliable leader and ally ·     They understand you make decisions for the good of the group ·     They know you care about them How…