The mediation process differs for everyone,
however the following guidelines can help you to prepare for what to expect and
how to prepare yourself for mediation…
By using these 10 steps, you’ll be more
likely to solve your dispute in a satisfying, civilised manner.
1. Always make sure that both parties are
present as well as the mediator and everyone is informed on the dispute at
hand.
2. Expect the unexpected and be willing to
accept any new information or developments that come up.
3. Listen during the mediation session and
focus on the problem you are trying to resolve, not the people involved.
4. Do not use the same tactics that are
used in litigation. There is no need to do anything unnecessary and potentially
offensive.
5. Spend a bit of time thinking, planning
and discussing your approach during the mediation session.
6. Think outside the box and try to look at
the issue you are trying to resolve through the eyes of the opposite party
involved.
7. Build your pre-mediation preparation by being
aware of how you are perceived and how your position invites or denies
resolving the dispute.
8. All mediation briefs and materials
should be completed before the mediation takes place. Of course you should also
know your materials well and be ready to explain and clarify anything.
9. Never underestimate the ability of the
other part involved. It is best to get through the mediation as a team and
resolved the conflict together then to just spectate from the side-lines.
10.
Think about your strategy in negotiation, review what mediation
processes you prefer as well as what you will say and do to get through the
dispute.
The only way to get through mediation successfully
is to well-prepared in advance as well as to be willing to deal with any issues
and questions raised by the mediator or the opposite party.
