Mediation is a structured process and one that uses specialised communication techniques, so much of its success hinges on the skill of the mediator and their adherence to the principles of the process. At this time of the year we look at The Grinch that stole the mediation, that is the three key principles that if neglected by the mediator, will imperil the process. 1) Talking: Mediation does use specialised communication techniques, but these are directed at the parti

As mediators we are trained to be attuned to the possibility of a 'ghost' in the mediation- the 'ghost' is not actually a party to the mediation, but their name keeps coming up in the mediation, and it becomes apparent they are able to exert significant influence on the workplace dynamics. You know you have a ghost in the mediation when the parties talk about this person often and certain issue always trace back to that person. As the ghost is not present, certain issues c