A satisfying process includes trusting the mediator’s ability and integrity. In my work as a mediator, I incorporate the following skills as needed:

• Encouraging constructive debate among the parties to the dispute without giving away requested confidences;

• Participating in private intra-party dialogue between attorneys and their clients to explore assumptions, perceptions, strengths and weakness;

• Clarifying interests, needs, and concerns by asking appropriate questions;

• Handling difficult people and intense situations with diplomacy and tact;

• Exploring creative options for meeting the parties’ needs and interests;

• Facilitating dialogue that can improve the working relationships among disputants;

• Orchestrating a win-win situation.