What is the role of the mediator?
The role of the mediator is to facilitate a conversation between two parties from a neutral perspective. The benefit of neutrality is that neither party is “represented” by the mediator. This eliminates the adversarial positioning and allows for candid, open, and honest conversation.
A good mediator:
- helps you represent yourself and your best interests.
- does not take sides or advocate for either party.
- helps each party advocate from himself or herself.
- does not give legal advice, make decisions, or offer a judgement about your unique situation.
- uses skills and techniques that excavate the underlying issues preventing the conflict from resolving.
- facilitates the conversation between two parties and moves the conflict toward resolution.