When people hear the word “mediation,” they often imagine a formal process or legal proceeding. In reality, mediation is a collaborative and flexible way of resolving conflict, guided by a trained and accredited professional: the mediator.
If you are considering mediation, it helps to know what to expect when working with an accredited mediator. In New Zealand, mediators are accredited through the Resolution Institute Accreditation or AMINZ Accreditation. Both frameworks set high benchmarks to ensure quality, professionalism, and fairness.
Neutrality and Impartiality
An accredited mediator does not take sides or decide who is right or wrong, nor does the mediator assess the moral, legal or commercial aspects of your case. Instead, their role is to create a safe and respectful environment where all parties have the opportunity to be heard. You can expect the mediator to remain neutral and focused on the process.
Confidentiality
Mediation is private. What is said in mediation stays in mediation, unless everyone agrees otherwise or there are specific legal obligations to disclose. This confidentiality allows people to speak openly and work towards solutions without fear of their words being used against them later.
Voluntary Process
Mediation is based on choice. All parties attend voluntarily, and you are free to withdraw at any stage. Likewise, any agreements reached are made by the participants, not imposed by the mediator. This makes mediation a collaborative and empowering process. If during the process, at any stage you feel like you want to exit the process, the mediator may ask you to have a short private session to explore any concerns and see whether possible to put things back on track.
Professional Standards and Training
Accredited mediators have undergone rigorous training and assessment to meet professional standards. This includes:
· Understanding conflict dynamics and communication techniques.
· Applying structured processes to manage discussions effectively.
· Meeting ongoing professional development and ethical obligations.
Both accreditation systems ensure mediators uphold these standards consistently.
A Focus on Communication and Understanding
Disputes are rarely just about the “surface” issues. Accredited mediators are trained to help people uncover underlying concerns, clarify misunderstandings, and improve communication. This often leads to more durable and practical agreements.
Flexibility and Practical Solutions
Unlike court proceedings, mediation is highly flexible. The mediator helps the parties explore creative, tailored solutions that meet their needs, whether the issue is personal, commercial, workplace-related, or cross-cultural.
When to Consider Mediation
Mediation can be valuable in many situations, such as:
· Family or relationship disagreements.
· Workplace and employment issues.
· Business, commercial, or contractual disputes.
· Community or cross-cultural matters.
If you want to preserve relationships, save time and costs, and maintain control over the outcome, mediation may be the right choice.
Working with an accredited mediator gives you confidence that the process will be professional, fair, and respectful. Accredited mediators are trained to help people navigate conflict with neutrality, confidentiality, and care.
Mediation is not about winning or losing, it’s about finding a way forward.