Characteristics of Effective Mediated Communication

Conflict between organizations, domestic partners, or individuals can often reach a point where resolution is impossible. And while the legal system does provide a litigation process in which conflicts can be resolved once and for all, in some cases, effective mediated communication is all that's needed. The mediation process provides a framework in which constructive problem-solving can take place.

Identification

Mediation is a method by which effective communication is used to resolve disputes between conflicting parties. An impartial third party is assigned the task of stimulating conversation between the parties in the hopes of uncovering a mutually agreed-upon solution. This method is used by companies, community organizations, government organizations, unions and individuals. Confliction mediation methods are a way for parties to avoid litigation processes, especially in cases in which the dispute concerns a delicate matter.

Function

Community disputes, divorce and/or child custody cases, employee-employer disagreements and diplomatic disputes are all situations in which effective mediated communication can be of use. The aim of the process is to identify pressing issues, develop possible solutions, uncover alternatives and develop a mutual agreement in a non-confrontational manner. The mediator acts as an impartial third party who is required to maintain total confidentiality regarding the proceedings. Throughout the process, mediators seek to eliminate communication barriers, while bringing participant needs to the forefront.

Mediation Process

The process of providing effective mediated communication between parties involves gathering information that's relevant to the problem at hand. This includes the reasons why participants sought out mediation, and what each party expects to get out of the process. To avoid confrontational interactions, the mediator sets up ground rules, which participants agree to follow throughout the process. Once a resolution has been found, participants are required to draft and sign an agreement that lists the terms of the resolution.

Benefits

A mediated-communications approach can succeed when both parties are motivated to reach a resolution. When past attempts to resolve an issue have failed, incorporating an impartial third party to coordinate discussion is a viable option. The benefits of this approach bring efficient and directed communication interactions to the forefront. Ultimately, the mediator works to empower each party to find and reach a mutual agreement, thereby allowing the participants to retain their authority over the process.

Mediation in Employment Relations

The United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission(EEOC) provides a means by which employees can obtain fair representation without going through court proceedings. Employees have the option of going through a mediation process in which the employee and employer work with a mediator to resolve workplace complaints. A trained representative from the EEOC Mediation program assists both parties in reaching a mutual agreement. This program has been in existence since 1999, and serves as an alternative to the traditional investigation methods used to address issues surrounding workplace complaints.

References

• Defining Mediation
• Mediation: Alternative Dispute Resolution
• Mediation

Resources

• Find Mediators and Dispute Professionals, Mediation Information & Resources