How should I prepare for the mediation meeting
When you enter into mediation you are starting down a road that should have a conclusion. Mediation gives the parties opportunities to understand each others’ perspectives, and to take that into account when attempting to reach agreement. It is a process that allows the parties to move on, whether in the same employment relationship or not.
In the mediation meeting you are participating in a structured discussion where you must be able to discuss the problem and respond to facts or comments made by the other party or the mediator.
There are no technical requirements for presenting your story. Preparation is essentially drawing the facts together so you can explain to others what happened, what your views are and what you want.
The facts you should be prepared to cover at the mediation are:
- the key cause of the difference between yourself and the other party
- any secondary matters that contribute to that difference
- what your employment relationship was like before the problem developed
- any evidence to support what you are saying
- what you are seeking (be specific if you can).
The mediator will give assistance and support you in your decision-making. The aim is to end with a resolution that is within the law and that both parties feel comfortable with.
