Kompass Blog

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.

New managers are often on their own when it comes to navigating minefields like hiring, firing, and employee relations. And a misstep in any of these areas can have a serious impact on a business.

That’s why Kompass developed the Human Resources Management certificate. It’s designed to give new managers the tools and skills they need to embrace their new challenges with confidence.

Instructor Debra Wilson has 25 years of experience in numerous aspects of the human resources field.

We spoke with her recently to see what students can expect from the HR course and how the field is growing and changing.

Here’s what she had to say.

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 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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

Updated December 2025

Interested in helping people resolve disputes outside of court? Curious about what the job market is like for mediators in Canada?

Alternative dispute resolution (ADR) has become increasingly popular across the country over the past few years, and mediation is an important part of that process. Provinces like Ontario and Alberta have even made mediation mandatory in certain situations.

Even still, it’s not easy to find hard data on the demand for mediators in Canada.

We dug into the growing movement toward ADR and what it means for people looking to become mediators in this country.

Here’s what you need to know.

Updated December 2025

Family mediators help families settle conflicts and disagreements without going to court.

Mediators do not take sides or make decisions. Instead, they help each party understand the other's concerns, explore options, and agree on solutions.

Family mediators are often called in when a couple decides to end their relationship. They help the ex-partners work out arrangements regarding children, property, and finances.

But while divorce is a common family mediator practice area, it's not the only one. In fact, a variety of specializations exist within the field.

In this post, we explore four major practice areas in family mediation—and some helpful information on getting started in this career.