--- title: Blog - Kompass Professional Development (5) description: Explore the Kompass Online Training blog hub at Herzing College. Discover articles on flexible, interactive courses to advance your career and skills. (5) --- ### Book a Tour X Visit a Herzing College Campus! ### Ask a Question X Want to Learn More? ### Explore X ### Is Career Training right for you? [TAKE OUR CAREER TRAINING READINESS KIT](https://yourcareerexploration.ca/?lead_src=w-cta-box&mid=18419) Live Chat   Tour   Ask   Explore   [![Kompass logo](https://blog.herzing.ca/hubfs/kompass_logo@2x.png "Kompass logo")](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training/) - [Home](https://www.herzing.ca/professionaldevelopment/) - [About](https://www.herzing.ca/professionaldevelopment/why-choose-kompass-online-training) - [Programs](https://www.herzing.ca/professionaldevelopment/) - [FAQ](https://www.herzing.ca/professionaldevelopment/academic-and-finance-faqs) - [Blog](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training/) [![her-ic-facebook@2x](https://blog.herzing.ca/hubfs/her-ic-facebook@2x.png "her-ic-facebook@2x")](https://www.facebook.com/kompasstraining) [![her-ic-twitter@2x](https://blog.herzing.ca/hubfs/her-ic-twitter@2x.png "her-ic-twitter@2x")](https://www.twitter.com/kompasstraining) [![her-ic-blog@2x](https://blog.herzing.ca/hubfs/her-ic-blog@2x.png "her-ic-blog@2x")](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training) [![her-ic-youtube@2x](https://blog.herzing.ca/hubfs/her-ic-youtube@2x.png "her-ic-youtube@2x")](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7PwpqOP2aEwqNCAvlBa9rA) # Kompass Blog Online professional development and custom corporate training ![menu@2x](https://blog.herzing.ca/hs-fs/hubfs/menu@2x.png?width=42&name=menu@2x.png "menu@2x") ## [Pre-mediation: What It Is and Why It’s Important](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training/pre-mediation-what-it-is-and-why-its-important) [![Man sitting on couch waving hands and talking to mediator](https://blog.herzing.ca/hubfs/mediation%20screening.jpg)](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training/pre-mediation-what-it-is-and-why-its-important) Jul 20, 2022, 2:29:58 PM *Updated December 2025* Mediation has become an increasingly popular option for settling family disputes in Ontario. It’s typically quicker, more cost-effective, and less adversarial than going to court. Mediators need to prepare and support their clients to make sure each party can participate fully. They need to be alert to anything that can adversely affect a client's ability to engage in the process, such as mental health issues or family violence. That's why they meet with each party beforehand to understand the factors involved. This is known as pre-mediation, or "screening in." Thinking about a career in mediation? Keep reading to learn what the intake process involves and why it’s so important. [Read More ❯](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training/pre-mediation-what-it-is-and-why-its-important) --- ## [Public Policy: What It Is, Why It’s Important, and How to Get Involved](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training/what-is-public-policy) [![A team of four professionals working together at a table](https://blog.herzing.ca/hubfs/public%20policy%20discussion.jpg)](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training/what-is-public-policy) Jun 16, 2022, 9:03:11 AM *Updated December 2025* Public policy can be described as the strategy governments use to meet the needs of society. All governments must deal with issues that affect large segments of the population, such as taxation, housing, health and safety, and more. By pursuing a career in public policy, you can play a key role in shaping the principles and priorities that guide a government’s actions. In this post, we explain what the public policy field is all about and why it matters. We also show you how to get involved in public policy through different educational options and career paths. [Read More ❯](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training/what-is-public-policy) --- ## [Family Mediator Skills & Qualifications: What You Need to Succeed](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training/family-mediator-skills-qualifications-what-you-need-to-succeed) [![Man and woman facing each other at a table with a mediator in the middle](https://blog.herzing.ca/hubfs/iStock-1127950072.jpg)](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training/family-mediator-skills-qualifications-what-you-need-to-succeed) May 11, 2022, 9:50:30 AM *Updated December 2025* Are you interested in helping Ontario families work through their differences without going to court? Family mediators play an important role in helping people navigate the end of a relationship. They help families work through disputes related to separation, divorce, child custody, and more—all while avoiding a costly, drawn-out litigation process. But if you’re looking to specialize in family mediation, you may be wondering what it takes to get your career off the ground. We combed through job postings and spoke to industry experts to find out what skills and qualifications are required to thrive as a family mediator. Here’s what you typically need to have. [Read More ❯](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training/family-mediator-skills-qualifications-what-you-need-to-succeed) --- ## [Cultivating Rapport With Mediation Clients: 4 Common Pitfalls to Avoid](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training/cultivating-rapport-with-mediation-clients-4-common-pitfalls-to-avoid) [![mediation training](https://blog.herzing.ca/hubfs/Stock%20images/Businesswoman%20receiving%20a%20customer%20in%20her%20office.jpeg)](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training/cultivating-rapport-with-mediation-clients-4-common-pitfalls-to-avoid) Dec 6, 2021, 2:00:19 PM *Updated December 2025* It's quite possible that opposing parties of a mediation will not trust each other. Whatever issue has brought them to this process, you can assume both sides are feeling anxious and have their walls up. This is why it's so crucial that all participants be able to trust you, the mediator. You are the one objective individual at the negotiation table—the stable centre in the midst of all those swirling emotions, expectations, and uncertainty. From the very first point of contact until the issue at hand has been resolved, the mediator must earn and maintain the trust of their clients. One of the key ways mediators accomplish this is by cultivating rapport, putting participants at ease, and establishing an atmosphere of cooperation. But in their eagerness to build rapport, mediators sometimes stumble into traps. Take a look at four common mistakes to avoid when you're seeking to connect with your clients. [Read More ❯](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training/cultivating-rapport-with-mediation-clients-4-common-pitfalls-to-avoid) --- ## [Workplace Conflict Resolution: 7 Clear Steps to Resolve Disputes](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training/workplace-conflict-resolution-7-steps-to-resolve-disputes) [![workplace conflict resolution and mediation](https://blog.herzing.ca/hubfs/workplace%20conflict%20resolution.jpg)](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training/workplace-conflict-resolution-7-steps-to-resolve-disputes) Nov 3, 2021, 2:47:40 PM *Updated December 2025* When people spend a significant amount of time together, conflicts are sure to arise. And when you add the pressures and stresses of the workplace, disputes become not only inevitable, but costly. A [global study](https://img.en25.com/Web/CPP/Conflict_report.pdf) from 2008 found that on average, employees spend roughly 2.1 hours each week dealing with conflicts at work. That equates to approximately one day each month in lost productivity. The study also found that letting such disputes go unaddressed can lead to personal attacks, physical sicknesses, and project failures. That's why workplace conflict resolution is a key area for mediation. A growing number of business leaders are using mediation to resolve corporate conflicts and restore harmony at the office. Whether you’re an aspiring mediator, HR professional, or business manager, there are proven mediation techniques you can use to defuse conflicts and build a healthier work environment. Start by following these seven key steps. [Read More ❯](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training/workplace-conflict-resolution-7-steps-to-resolve-disputes) --- ## [5 Good Reasons to Become a Mediator (& How to Get Started)](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training/5-good-reasons-to-become-a-mediator-how-to-get-started) [![become a mediator](https://blog.herzing.ca/hubfs/iStock-1007121758.jpg)](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training/5-good-reasons-to-become-a-mediator-how-to-get-started) Nov 3, 2021, 2:45:10 PM *Updated December 2025* People come to the practice of mediation from all walks of life and professional backgrounds. It's not just lawyers who become mediators. Anyone with an interest in alternative dispute resolution, strong communication skills, and sharp problem-solving abilities can excel in this career. Considering this path? In this post, we're exploring some of the best reasons to become a mediator. These are the most common motivators for the students we work with in mediation training—and a good introduction to what the field is all about. At the end of the post, we've included some information on how to earn a professional mediator designation and key things to know about the training process. Let's get started! [Read More ❯](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training/5-good-reasons-to-become-a-mediator-how-to-get-started) --- ## [What Exactly Do You Learn in Family Mediation Training?](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training/what-exactly-do-you-learn-in-family-mediation-training) [![family mediation training](https://blog.herzing.ca/hubfs/iStock-1144377672.jpg)](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training/what-exactly-do-you-learn-in-family-mediation-training) Oct 19, 2021, 1:06:56 PM *Updated December 2025* Family mediation training focuses on giving students the tools to help families settle disputes without going through litigation. Students gain an understanding of family law, relationship dynamics, and the role of a mediator. They also learn practical techniques for facilitating discussions and guiding the parties toward a resolution that everyone can live with. Family mediation training can prepare you to deal with disputes arising from separation, divorce, parenting, elder care, family business succession, and more. So what specific knowledge and skills will you develop in family mediation training? What are the key takeaways? Here’s a breakdown of the main areas covered in class. [Read More ❯](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training/what-exactly-do-you-learn-in-family-mediation-training) --- ## [Inside Look at Arbitration Training with Instructor, Andy Livingston](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training/interview-with-andy-arbitration-cert) [![arbitration training instructor Andy Livingston](https://blog.herzing.ca/hubfs/IMG_1145.jpg)](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training/interview-with-andy-arbitration-cert) Sep 23, 2021, 10:27:36 AM *Photo: Andy Livingston, CEO of Dexterity Consulting and arbitration instructor at Kompass* Over the last few years there's been a considerable uptick in demand for alternative dispute resolution services like arbitration and mediation. The pandemic has only accelerated this trend as people look to settle their conflicts outside of court. And lawyers aren't the only ones pursuing careers in ADR. People from diverse professional backgrounds are taking mediation and arbitration training to better handle workplace disputes - or set up private ADR practices. This week we spoke with Andy Livingston, a social sciences graduate turned certified ADR professional, who runs a private practice and teaches arbitration training at Kompass. Andy walks us through the online arbitration certificate and explains different pathways to becoming an arbitrator in Canada. Think you might be interested in this course? Read on for an inside look. [Read More ❯](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training/interview-with-andy-arbitration-cert) --- ## [Beginner's Guide to Arbitration Careers, Training, and Certificates](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training/arbitration-training-key-skills-career-options) [![arbitration careers](https://blog.herzing.ca/hubfs/iStock-1303999248.jpg)](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training/arbitration-training-key-skills-career-options) Sep 23, 2021, 10:21:08 AM Arbitration is one of the most popular forms of alternative dispute resolution (ADR). Similar to a judge, an arbitrator is a neutral third party who hears witnesses and reviews evidence before delivering a judgment that is usually legally binding. However, arbitration is less formal than courtroom litigation and typically less costly and time-consuming. And unlike the court system, parties involved in arbitration are allowed to choose their own arbitrator, and can design the process to suit their own needs. That means they can choose the timing and place of the arbitration, as well as who will be present. Another key benefit of arbitration is privacy. Proceedings are confidential, which is generally considered a major advantage over litigation. But how does one start a career in arbitration?  What kind of training pathways and certifications are available in Canada? Here is a simple breakdown of arbitration careers, training options, and professional designations. [Read More ❯](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training/arbitration-training-key-skills-career-options) --- ## [What is a Family Mediator? Inside Look at the Role & Process](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training/what-does-a-family-mediator-do-inside-look-at-the-role) [![Smiling mediator sitting across from a couple ](https://blog.herzing.ca/hubfs/iStock-1271711613.jpg)](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training/what-does-a-family-mediator-do-inside-look-at-the-role) Aug 18, 2021, 9:28:01 AM *Updated December 2025* A family mediator is a neutral third party who helps families resolve disputes outside of court. Mediators facilitate discussions between opposing parties and ensure that everyone is able to air their concerns and perspectives. The goal is to help all parties come to a mutually acceptable solution. But what does that actually involve? What are the specific functions of a family mediator? Keep reading to get an inside look at the tasks and responsibilities of this career. Learn what the role of a family mediator is all about and see if it’s right for you. [Read More ❯](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training/what-does-a-family-mediator-do-inside-look-at-the-role) --- [❮](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training/page/4) [1](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training/page/1) [...](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training/page/1) [3](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training/page/3) [4](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training/page/4) [5](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training/page/5) [6](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training/page/6) [7](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training/page/7) [8](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training/page/8) [9](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training/page/9) [...](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training/page/9) [9](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training/page/9) [❯](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training/page/6) ## Start Now #### At Kompass we believe that throughout your career, the more you know, the more you grow. [![REGISTER FOR CERTIFICATE](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/386626/e2b92547-2c53-45f6-a3f3-e0564a7498a0.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/386626/e2b92547-2c53-45f6-a3f3-e0564a7498a0) [![REGISTER FOR INDIVIDUAL CLASS](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/386626/9319748e-046a-475b-bd5d-a49044c4338f.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/386626/9319748e-046a-475b-bd5d-a49044c4338f) ### Categories - [Accounting and Payroll (14)](https://blog.herzing.ca/topic/accounting-and-payroll) - [administrative assistant (11)](https://blog.herzing.ca/topic/administrative-assistant) - [All Campuses (1)](https://blog.herzing.ca/topic/national) - [broadcasting and media communications (1)](https://blog.herzing.ca/topic/broadcasting-and-media-communications) - [building design (13)](https://blog.herzing.ca/topic/building-design) - [Business (74)](https://blog.herzing.ca/topic/business) - [Business Administration (9)](https://blog.herzing.ca/topic/business-administration) - [careers and employment (9)](https://blog.herzing.ca/topic/careers-and-employment) - [Community services worker (24)](https://blog.herzing.ca/topic/community-services-worker) - [computer networking (16)](https://blog.herzing.ca/topic/computer-networking) - [Cybersecurity (12)](https://blog.herzing.ca/topic/cybersecurity) - [Design (58)](https://blog.herzing.ca/topic/design) - [Education (23)](https://blog.herzing.ca/topic/education) - [general (1)](https://blog.herzing.ca/topic/general) - [graphic design (13)](https://blog.herzing.ca/topic/graphic-design) - [Health Care Aide (12)](https://blog.herzing.ca/topic/health-care-aide) - [Healthcare (91)](https://blog.herzing.ca/topic/healthcare) - [immigration case manager (11)](https://blog.herzing.ca/topic/immigration-case-manager) - [Interior Design (16)](https://blog.herzing.ca/topic/interior-design) - [legal assistant (9)](https://blog.herzing.ca/topic/legal-assistant) - [Legal Studies (24)](https://blog.herzing.ca/topic/legal-studies) - [Media (12)](https://blog.herzing.ca/topic/media) - [medical lab assistant (2)](https://blog.herzing.ca/topic/medical-lab-assistant) - [Medical Office Administration (26)](https://blog.herzing.ca/topic/medical-office-administration) - [Montreal Campus Blog (6)](https://blog.herzing.ca/topic/montreal) - [news and events (13)](https://blog.herzing.ca/topic/news-and-events) - [occupational health and safety (17)](https://blog.herzing.ca/topic/occupational-health-and-safety) - [occupational health and safety program (1)](https://blog.herzing.ca/topic/occupational-health-and-safety-program) - [Ottawa Campus Blog (14)](https://blog.herzing.ca/topic/ottawa) - [personal support worker (19)](https://blog.herzing.ca/topic/personal-support-worker) - [software development (10)](https://blog.herzing.ca/topic/software-development) - [student services (15)](https://blog.herzing.ca/topic/student-services) - [student support services (3)](https://blog.herzing.ca/topic/student-support-services) - [supply chain management (7)](https://blog.herzing.ca/topic/supply-chain-management) - [sustainable architecture (10)](https://blog.herzing.ca/topic/sustainable-architecture) - [Technology (50)](https://blog.herzing.ca/topic/technology) - [Toronto Campus Blog (18)](https://blog.herzing.ca/topic/toronto) - [training (12)](https://blog.herzing.ca/topic/training) - [Winnipeg Campus Blog (32)](https://blog.herzing.ca/topic/winnipeg) See all ### Most Read ## Categories - [Careers and Training](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training/tag/careers-and-training) - [Arbitration](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training/tag/arbitration) - [Health and Safety](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training/tag/health-and-safety) - [Mediation](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training/tag/mediation) - [Project Management](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training/tag/project-management) - [Public Policy](https://blog.herzing.ca/kompass-online-training/tag/public-policy) ## This is a call to action A major key to a healthy community is a healthy relationship with the local police force. Both parties benefit extensively when a strong partnership is built. [![REGISTER FOR CERTIFICATE](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/386626/e2b92547-2c53-45f6-a3f3-e0564a7498a0.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/386626/e2b92547-2c53-45f6-a3f3-e0564a7498a0) - [Contact Us](mailto:info@kompasstraining.ca) - [Withdrawal & Refund Policy](https://www.herzing.ca/professionaldevelopment/refund-policy/) - [Privacy Policy](https://www.herzing.ca/professionaldevelopment/refund-policy/) - [Herzing College](https://www.herzing.ca/) ## KOMPASS PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT 1700 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3J 0E1 [info@kompasstraining.ca](mailto:info@kompasstraining.ca) [![icon-facebook](https://blog.herzing.ca/hubfs/kompass-images/icon-facebook.png "icon-facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/kompasstraining) [![icon-twitter](https://blog.herzing.ca/hubfs/kompass-images/icon-twitter.png "icon-twitter")](https://www.twitter.com/kompasstraining) [![icon-youtube](https://blog.herzing.ca/hubfs/kompass-images/icon-youtube.png "icon-youtube")](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7PwpqOP2aEwqNCAvlBa9rA) [![icon-linkedin](https://blog.herzing.ca/hubfs/kompass-images/icon-linkedin.png "icon-linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/company/kompass-training) ## © Copyright. All rights reserved.