Mediator

Mediators are neutral, third-party arbitrators who help resolve conflicts among two or more disputing parties. Mediator positions have become more popular recently due to rising legal costs, prompting many people to want to settle their legal disagreements outside of court. This process is known as alternative dispute resolution. Mediators help to guide this process. A career assessment can help decide if this is the proper career path for an individual.

Mediators help facilitate negotiations and settle disputes among parties by offering unbiased guidance and encouragement. A mediator will work with all the concerned parties to find agreeable ways to arrive at a mutually beneficial solution. Specific job duties vary depending upon the agency involved. Most mediators spend a great deal of time monitoring discussion and guiding the direction of the negotiations, making sure the arrangement stays on track. Mediators also prepare court reports, case histories and other documents, while interpreting court rules regarding each specific case. Mediators are expected to remain informed about current legislative trends and rules.

A majority of mediators have been lawyers or judges in the past, however individuals from all employment backgrounds are beginning to enter the profession. In the US, no specific license or formal certification process exists. Mediator training is often available through mediation agencies, local and national membership groups, and higher education institutions. Several colleges and universities throughout the US have begun offering degrees in advanced conflict management and dispute resolution.

Mediators can be formally trained through a college or through a mediation training program. Most training programs are court funded and require students to complete a specific set of courses. Volunteer opportunities at professional mediation centers provide additional on-the-job experience. Advanced degrees may be obtained through post-secondary institutions.

Mediators are required to have several well-developed interpersonal and communications skills. These include effective communication, fair negotiation, superior problem solving and analytical skills. Mediators are expected to work well with clients and other involved agencies, including courts, judges, community organizations and local government. The most successful mediators are able to meet their clients’ emotional needs with honesty, patience, and creativity.

Businesses and individuals have begun seeking ways to avoid litigation and the associated problems that come with it. Alternative dispute resolution has become a very popular alternative to lawsuits recently. Parties are able to avoid a lengthy courtroom session with a judge, and instead can discuss the dispute openly with the assistance of a professional mediator in a much less formal setting. Mediations are often held in a private office or meeting room, and are not public record. These hearings are still completely confidential. For this reason, mediator job openings are expected to continue their current growth cycle.