Do’s and Don’ts on Communicating with Your Mediator~ 2 min read
Mediation is a great way to settle family disputes, but how you communicate with your mediator plays a big role in the process. Here are some simple do’s and don’ts to help you to work through your mediation successfully.
Do’s: Effective Ways to Communicate
- Be Open and Honest
Share the necessary facts with your mediator. They aren’t there to judge you, but to help both sides reach an agreement. Keep it simple and avoid unnecessary details. - Be Professional and Respectful
Always maintain a respectful tone, even when discussing difficult topics. Treat the Mediation as a professional setting where calm communication is key. - Focus on the Facts
Stick to the facts and clearly state your goals. The mediator doesn’t need your life story—just the important details to move the process forward. - Be Timely and Organized
When asked for documents or information, provide them quickly. Delays can make the process more expensive and stressful, so staying organized helps everyone.
Don’ts: What to Avoid
- Don’t Badmouth Your Spouse
No matter how difficult the situation is, avoid attacking or blaming your spouse. Focus on solving problems, not creating more conflict. If serious issues like domestic violence are relevant, mention them calmly. - Don’t Try to Sway the Mediator
The mediator is neutral—they aren’t there to take sides. Trying to convince them to support your position won’t help your case. Instead, stick to the facts. - Don’t Overshare Personal Issues
Your mediator doesn’t need to hear every detail about your relationship. Stick to what’s necessary for resolving the dispute and reaching an agreement.
Conclusion
Effective communication with your mediator is one of the keys to a successful Mediation process. By following these guidelines, you help to reach an agreement that is in the best interest of you, your spouse and your family. By keeping your communication professional, focused, and timely, you can ensure that the mediation process will be as smooth and constructive as possible.
Contact Family Ally
At Family Ally, we’re dedicated to helping families navigate disputes with expert Mediation services. Our experienced team is here to support you in reaching a resolution that works for everyone. Contact Jennifer Piper at 314-449-9800 to schedule a consultation.
