Updated January 2023
Your success as a mediator will depend on your ability to cultivate a sense of collaboration and trust between people in conflict. That's no easy feat.
After all, people usually enter into mediation because communication has broken down. Resentment, stress, and suspicion have made it difficult to see matters clearly—let alone negotiate a fair outcome!
Professional mediators need a toolkit of techniques they can use to break down those walls, create an atmosphere of trust, and get opposing sides talking in productive ways.
These are fundamental skills taught in mediation training - and competencies you'll continue to hone throughout your entire career.
Here are four ways to build rapport and break through mistrust during the mediation process.