In these confidential meetings, called caucuses, the mediator helps the parties try to find an appropriate way to resolve their problem. The role of the mediator is to act as a neutral third party that facilitates the mediation process. A mediator is not there to provide legal service or advice, or to issue a decision. The decision-making power rests with the parties. If the parties reach an agreement, the mediator will prepare a settlement agreement which will be binding once signed by both parties and reviewed by any necessary reviewing officials.
Mediation has many advantages for both parties.
If you are an employee and find yourself in a dispute with a manager or coworker, mediation can help resolve issues privately, confidentially and in a timely manner. If you are manger, prompt resolution of the dispute frees you to resume your other activities more quickly. Above all, mediation lets the parties themselves settle the issue. They can tailor their agreement to best meet their own unique needs. This greatly increases the likelihood that the outcome will be acceptable to both parties.