Mediate Conflict Between Others

When proposing a mediation, first set some ground rules. Seek the parties' agreement that the mediator will determine what's discussed, in what order and how this will be done and an approximate timeframe. Once parties have agreed to the process, invite them to take turns expressing their issues as factually as possible. Don't allow interruptions, unless clarification is sought. After each side has spoken, get both to summarize the other side's position.
Seek each side's specific requests for what they'd like the other side to do differently. The mediator can write down what each has agreed to do; this becomes a contract between the sides. Finally, schedule a review at a later date to see how the arrangement is working.

• Mediate conflict between others  explore expectations and ensure ground rules for respectful exchanges are agreed to.
• Determine what's discussed, in what order and how this will be done and an approximate timeframe.
• Invite the parties to take turns expressing their issues as factually as possible.
• Don't allow interruptions, unless clarification is sought.
• Invite each person to summarize the others position and make any specific requests for what they'd like the other side to do differently.
• Document what each has agreed to do; this becomes a contract between the sides.
• Schedule a review date to see how the arrangement is working.