mediation training

What is Mediation Training?

More and more, managers have begun to see value in securing mediation training for themselves and their employees. 

In mediation, a neutral third party tries to help parties in conflict hammer out a resolution that is sustainable, voluntary, and non-binding. Although there are times when the services of an unbiased, professional mediator are needed, there may also be instances in which employees can use mediation training and skills to resolve their conflicts swiftly and effectively in-house.

One of the most important parts of mediation training, however, is recognizing that, like any negotiation, building a relationship with your counterpart is key. According to a survey by Northwestern University law professor Stephen Goldberg, veteran mediators believe that establishing rapport is more critical to effective mediation than employing specific meditation techniques and tactics. To gain parties’ trust and confidence, rapport must be genuine: “You can’t fake it,” one respondent said. 

Mediation training can help you and your colleagues:

• Air negative emotions with the goal of being heard and understood;
• Listen to criticism and complaints without becoming defensive;
• Brainstorm solutions that would satisfy all parties involved; and
• Foster an environment where employees feel comfortable mediating disputes.

The mediation training itself may come in the form of a highly participatory in-person class that includes lectures, discussions, videos, role-plays, and simulation exercises. Assignments may also include research papers on specific topics relating to mediation, graded simulations, mediator memoranda, journal-keeping, and analysis of specific mediations.

If you want to understand the mediation process and why it’s a powerful business tool, download your free special report, Mediation Secrets for Better Business Negotiations: Top Techniques from Mediation Training Experts, from the Program on Negotiation at Harvard Law School. Get insights into why mediation is the preferred method of dispute resolution for most managers. Download your FREE copy today.

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