Tip 10: Success

We know that statistics continue to show an 80% – 90% "success" rate for commercial mediations. That usually means a complete resolution of the dispute on the day of mediation or soon after.

However, "success" may also be to narrow the issues, test the arguments, focus on key points or generate an action plan for later implementation. All are valid conclusions.

One lead negotiator leaned over to his opposite number at the end of a long negotiation in two days of mediation and said: "As important as the outcome is that we now understand where you guys are coming from".

Whatever the outcome, don’t let it fizzle out… Finishing well is really important.