A mediator is a neutral third party who assists in the resolution of disagreements between two individuals or organizations. Although mediators do not receive formal training, many have degrees in their fields of expertise as well as additional training in conflict resolution or psychology. There are many different types of mediation jobs available; mediators will continue to be an extremely useful part of society as long as human nature includes argument and disagreement.
Many of the meditating jobs are centered on family law courts. Divorcing couples are frequently at odds, unable to agree on who gets the coffee table, let alone more pressing issues such as assets, debt, and custody. In this field, mediating jobs are frequently used as a bridge between working things out without legal assistance and hiring attorneys to handle difficult issues in court. Mediators in family law work with the parties to reach an equitable settlement that can become legally binding if a judge agrees. They are typically far less expensive than a lengthy divorce or custody trial.
In the business world, there are many different types of mediation jobs. Some people help to settle internal conflicts, such as those between employees and management. In this type of work, mediators usually have a background in the industry being discussed. A mediator who works to resolve a dispute between nurses and a hospital, for example, is likely to have prior experience or training in hospital administration.
Some public-spirited mediators may be able to find regular mediation work by partnering with police or sheriff’s departments. Whether it’s disagreements over park usage or escalating complaints from unhappy neighbors, these organizations frequently receive more complaints and disputes than they can handle. If all parties involved are cooperative, the police may enlist the help of a mediator to help craft a solution by collaborating with all parties involved. Finding jobs in the public sector as a mediator can help to improve the community while also preventing police and other law enforcement agencies from becoming overburdened.
While many mediation jobs are freelance in nature, some mediators work full-time for corporations or large non-profit organizations. Certain businesses are prone to constant conflict and disagreement, necessitating the hiring of a full-time mediator to handle work on a daily basis. Working full-time for one organization can give the impression that decisions will always favor the organization paying for mediation services; it is critical in these positions to maintain a reputation as a truly neutral party; working full-time for one organization can give the impression that decisions will always favor the organization paying for mediation services. A mediator must be perceived as fair and impartial by all sides in order to bring all parties to the table and willing to compromise.