What will your mediation outcome look like?

Mediation can be a valuable tool for resolving disputes, but it's important to have a clear understanding of what the desired outcome of the mediation session will look like. Having a clear vision of the outcome can help to keep parties focused and motivated during the negotiation process. However, it's also important to approach the mediation process with a certain degree of flexibility and open-mindedness.

First, consider the specific issues that need to be addressed. This could include financial compensation, changes in behavior, or an apology. Having a clear understanding of the issues at hand can help to ensure that the outcome is relevant and addresses the needs of all parties involved. It's like trying to fix a leaky faucet, you need to know where the leak is coming from before you can fix it.

Next, consider the desired outcome from each party's perspective. It's important to take into account the interests and needs of all parties involved and to strive for a mutually acceptable agreement. This means being open-minded and willing to compromise. It's like trying to put together a puzzle with missing pieces, but instead of missing pieces, it's missing perspectives.

It's also important to consider the long-term implications of the outcome. Will the agreement be sustainable in the long-term? Will it address the root causes of the dispute or just provide a temporary solution? It's like buying a plant, you want something that will last, not just something that will survive the week.

It's also important to remember that mediation is a voluntary process, and that the parties are in control of the outcome. This means that the parties themselves will have the final say on the outcome of the dispute. It's like having a say in what's for dinner, you get to decide, but you still have to eat it.

Finally, it's important to approach the mediation process with sympathy and understanding. Disputes can be emotionally charged and stressful, and it's important to remember that all parties involved are human beings with their own unique perspectives and experiences. A mediator with a sympathetic approach can help to ease tensions and create a more comfortable and relaxed atmosphere.

In conclusion, having a clear vision of the desired outcome of the mediation session is important, but it's also important to approach the process with flexibility, open-mindedness, and sympathy. It's important to consider the specific issues at hand, the desired outcome from each party's perspective, the long-term implications of the outcome, and the voluntary nature of the process. Remember, mediation is not a battle, it's a negotiation.

Here is another good source for further reading on mediation outcomes: