Apologies

The apology can be a vital part of the mediation process. It can address the emotional distress caused by a situation and it can set the tone for a radically different meeting. Carried out in conjunction with an experienced mediator, it can help provide closure and to enable the mediation to move forwards.

A profound apology is much more than just saying sorry, though using those words is at the heart of it. It is about connecting the parties involved in a way that actually resonates – that truly makes a difference. It becomes much more than just words, but about connection and recognition.

Guided by a skilled professional

For an apology to be effective, the process needs to be facilitated by a trained, experienced mediator. Preparing both parties for a meeting during which the apology takes place is a key step. The mediator needs to develop trust with both parties, talking about how they feel about the upcoming meeting.

The mediator will explore each parties’ feelings to establish their emotional readiness. They must confirm whether they see an apology as having a positive effect on resolving the dispute.

If they have any concerns that it may actually compound the original issues then they it should not go ahead. Mediators should do what is best for everyone involved in the mediation process.

Clear expectations

Once a mediator has established that an apology should take place they will consider the best way of dealing with this. Sometimes this will be dealt with in writing, with preparation  followed by a face to face meeting and other times it might be best not to prepare for the meeting.

For the meeting to succeed, a personal connection has to take place. Coming with an open mind, rather than a well-rehearsed script, may sometimes be more likely to achieve that. The mediator can suggest  the agenda for the meeting, which should be agreed by the participants, with any changes they wish to include.

The meeting may start with introductory thoughts from the giver of the apology, and a chance for the receiver to respond, followed by a short break. In the second part of the meeting, discussion can move from the current to the future, talking about how the future might look for each participant.

It is at this point that the formal declaration of apology can be made. Each case is clearly different

Simple words but with real meaning

We have all heard the saying ‘say sorry like you mean it’ and this at is the very heart of the  apology. Ultimately, the words used will be about being sorry for the situation and its consequences, however it is the personal, emotional connection between the two parties, facilitated by the right mediator, that can deliver a profound effect and enable the participants to move on to settle their dispute and move on with their lives.

As an experienced and innovative Mediator, accredited in Business Mediation for Commercial and Residential Property, Construction, Business and Commerce, Retail, Restaurant, Healthcare, Franchising, and financial related disputes I can help.

With over 33 years’ experience as a property solicitor I am fully versed in the legal framework of property and business disputes, and passionate that mediation provides a fresh approach, with a 75% success rate.

To find out more about my mediation services please call 07776 141 717, email roger@rogerlevittmediation.co.uk