Face to Face Mediation - How a Mediator Can Enhance Online Mediation

While remote mediation options have gained in popularity as a way to resolve disputes, for some disputing parties, face to face (or in-person) mediation remains the preferred option. While both in-person and virtual alternatives have their advantages, there are some specific ways that a skilled mediator can enhance online mediation sessions, helping the parties to better understand each other’s perspectives and build trust.

face to face mediation helps disputing parties meet in a more neutral space to discuss their dispute with the help of a neutral third party. A well-trained mediator can lower the emotional temperature of a negotiation, foster more effective communication, help uncover less obvious interests, and suggest creative solutions to disputes that the parties may not have considered.

In the case of family conflict, it is often necessary to address the conflicting emotional issues that are underlying the dispute. During a face to face session, a skilled mediator can provide an opportunity for participants to express their emotions in a safe environment, offering reassurance and support.

Additionally, a skilled mediator can observe non-verbal cues, such as facial expressions and body language, that may be difficult to pick up on in a virtual setting. This can offer the mediator an insight into what’s driving each participant’s behaviour, helping them to better understand their perspective and the emotions underlying a conflict.

When discussing the benefits of face to face mediation, many dispute resolution professionals point to the fact that it allows for a deeper level of understanding between participants. This is particularly true when dealing with family conflict, where a skilled mediator can help the parties to see beyond their current positions and find more productive ways of moving forward together.

Another advantage of face to face mediation is that it can save participants a lot of time and money. In the past, it would have been cost prohibitive for many to travel to a mediation session and attend at a set time during their work day. This would have necessitated arranging for childcare, paying for train or bus tickets, and taking a half day (or sometimes even full day) off work.

Finally, if you’re looking for a quick, cost-effective solution to your dispute, then online mediation may be a good option for you. As long as the technical issues can be overcome, such as a lack of adequate bandwidth, video conferencing problems or unforeseen CLOVID-19 related delays, then online mediation can offer you a cost effective way to resolve your dispute.

If you’re still unsure whether or not online mediation is right for you, then please contact the Local Consumer Program and ask to book a free face to face mediation appointment with one of our staff. We can assist you with the process and also provide advice on other options for resolving your dispute, such as filing a complaint in Small Claims Court or contacting a private attorney. This service is provided free of charge for businesses that are a part of the New Bedford City’s local government.