qualities of a skilled mediator

What are the Qualities of a Good Mediator?

Once the parties have decided to adopt mediation as their chosen form of dispute resolution they must appoint a mediator. The kind of person chosen will vary according to the situation, but a mediator should be:

	A good listener.
	A good communicator.
	Able to identify the fundamental issues.
	Able to focus on the matter in hand and push aside the roadblocks created by assumptions and emotions.
	Someone who commands the respect of all parties involved.
	Creative in envisioning solutions.
	Experienced in many areas of law.
	Patient and determined.

One of the mediator's aims is to provide the parties with an atmosphere and structure which will maximize their chances of being heard and, hopefully, reaching agreement. He will introduce factors that will lead the parties to a better understanding of each other's position and will also provide a forum to facilitate a successful exchange of information. The mediator will be impartial, treat the parties equally and take care not to allow one party to predominate. If the dispute cannot be fully resolved, the mediator has the option of terminating the session. However, it is not uncommon to reach partial agreements; nor is it uncommon for the parties to reach full agreement shortly after the mediation concludes.