What skills do you need as a Mediator?

A key aspect of mediation is that the mediator does not sort things out or make any decisions for the parties involved. Instead, he or she helps the parties involved work together to develop their own agreement.

A mediator needs a range of skills, including:

- Active listening skills;

- Questioning and clarifying skills to grasp both the facts and the areas of controversy;

- Emotional intelligence to understand the underlying emotions;

- Summarising skills to set out the main points of controversy, and underlying emotions, and also to help the participants to reframe issues in less emotive language;

- Empathy to help each party to stand in each other’s shoes and understand each other’s point of view.

Perhaps most importantly, a mediator must not take sides, or be seen to be acting unfairly. You will therefore need to acknowledge points made by both parties, and spend equal time with each person or on their issues.

It’s never going to help to point out that someone is being unreasonable, but you can help them take a reality check by asking what they would consider a reasonable outcome, and then asking whether they think the other party would agree.

Looking for professional, reliable mediation services at an affordable price? Don't hesitate to contact Cape Mediators today!