In this episode, Adam Gersch is joined by Global Mediation panel mediator Laurence Cobb, who discusses his journey from a legal background to becoming a mediator. They discuss the essential skills required for effective mediation and the evolution of mediation within the legal profession and provide insights and advice for those considering a career in mediation. The conversation highlights the importance of emotional intelligence, adaptability, and the role of humor in mediation, as well as the changing perceptions of mediation in litigation.

Takeaways

• Laurence Cobb transitioned from a legal career to mediation in 2014.
• Mediators need to possess strong listening skills and emotional intelligence.
• Not all lawyers make good mediators; neutrality is key.
• Humor can be a valuable tool in mediation when used appropriately.
• Mediation has become a normalized part of the legal process.
• Resilience is essential for mediators when dealing with emotional situations.
• Training and ongoing professional development are critical in mediation.
• Mediators must adapt their communication style to their audience.
• The perception of mediation has shifted positively in the legal field.
• Empathy without sympathy is essential for effective mediation.

In this episode of Mediation Matters, Adam Gersch is joined by Jeremy Connell, mediator, psychotherapist, and lawyer. They explore Jeremy's diverse journey into mediation, the importance of empathy and emotional intelligence in the field, and the evolving landscape of mediation as a career. Jeremy discusses the significance of storytelling in conflict resolution, creative approaches to mediation, and the future directions for the profession, emphasizing the need for adaptability and curiosity in mediators.

In this conversation, Adam interviews his father, Professor Irvine Gersch, about his journey into mediation and the field's evolution. They discuss how Professor Gersch started as an educational and child psychologist and developed a conciliation service to resolve disputes between parents and local authorities. They also explore the transition from conciliation to independent mediation and the importance of neutrality. The conversation touches on their collaboration in writing a book on special educational needs mediation and the challenges and successes of working together as a family. They conclude with insights on effective communication, understanding different perspectives, and embracing a mindset of tragic optimism.

Key Takeaways

- The journey into mediation often starts from a background in a related field, such as psychology or education.
- The transition from conciliation to independent mediation involves shifting towards neutrality and independence from local authorities.
- Collaboration and effective communication are key to resolving conflicts and maintaining successful working relationships.
- Understanding different perspectives and being open to learning and growth can lead to positive outcomes in conflict resolution.
- Embracing a mindset of tragic optimism allows for resilience and the ability to learn and improve from mistakes and challenges.