What the fly heard: What mediators say behind closed doors

Description

“I would love to be a fly on the wall of a real mediation.” Such a common sentiment among new mediators! Yet opportunities to observe seasoned mediators and hear mediator language are rare for fledgling mediators.

So in 1998 veteran mediator and mediation trainer Sandi Adams compiled a concise book of mediator language examples from her own years of practice. She included examples of what a mediator might say in each stage of the mediation, in response to typical dilemmas and needs in a session, and in response to tricky moments. She discusses how best to support mediation parties, help them negotiate, and attend to the mediation process.

No longer in print, Sandi’s made the PDF version exclusively available here! It has nine chapters filled with terrific examples of mediator language that’s helpful – and what language to avoid:

1. Listening in on the Mediator’s Opening Statement
2. Things Mediators Say to Clarify Information and Parties’ Interests
3. Flies in the Ointment – Sticky Comments to Avoid
4. Eavesdropping on Issue Checklist and Agenda Setting
5. Mediator-Speak During the Negotiation Stage
6. You Could Get Burnt – Don’t Fly Near These
7. Say What? Finalizing Any Agreements and Agreement Writing
8. Closing Statement Statements
9. Flypaper – Don’t Get Caught in These Traps