Why Train as a Mediator?
To consider that question, we should first discuss the nature of mediation.
Mediation is a voluntary process for the resolution of disputes, where an independent third party, the mediator, facilitates an agreement between the parties to resolve the dispute. Mediation has many advantages over other forma of dispute resolution, such as litigation. First, it is flexible and the solution is in the hands of the parties. The parties can reach terms of settlement which are outside of the scope of those a court can impose. That last statement illustrates the second benefit of mediation. In litigation a court imposes a solution which may not be to the benefit of either party. In mediation, however, any settlement is reached with the agreement and active participation of the parties. That means it is acceptable to both parties and can help to preserve or foster a continued working relationship. This can be very helpful where the disputants are companies who trade regularly. Further, litigation is notoriously expensive both in terms of legal costs and time. Mediation is, in contrast, relatively cheap and quick. Most mediations last less than one day and can be arranged in a few weeks. Finally, mediation works. There is ample evidence to demonstrate that around 90% of disputes taken to mediation settle at the mediation or soon afterwards.
Mediators use many skills in the course of a mediation. If you train as a mediator you will identify and work on those skills. They include listening to other points of view, analysing complex factual situations, negotiating and considering creative outcomes. When you train as a mediator you will identify those skills in yourself and others and learn to develop your use of them. These skills are transferable to other contexts in business. They will help you to develop better working relations with colleagues and customers. You will be better placed to deal with those awkward situations within which we often find ourselves in day to day business life.
So even if you don’t see yourself practicing as a mediator, there are still many sound business reasons to train as a mediator and develop those skills. Your career in business will, undoubtedly, benefit if you train as a mediator. You will see disputes from a new perspective and learn to consider alternative solutions to those disputes.
Deciding tot rain as a mediator is a sound step on the career ladder in business. It is one you are unlikely to regret.
Mike Green mike@direct-mediations.co.uk
David Bentley-Miller david@direct-mediations.co.uk