After the parties have agreed on the mediator the first step in the process is to have the mediator introduce the parties for their attendance, outlines the key points to the mediation process, and what the dispute(s) are. The ground rules for a productive process.
There is a sharing of perspectives. Each party has the floor during this part of the process, the rest of us listen. Feelings are permissible at this point. We look for shared interests throughout the process. We start here.
The mediator frequently translates what the parties because of difficulty when stressed. We try to understand what has happened then what are the parties seeking.
If emotions are hard to keep in check the mediator shall use the caucus function, essentially a private conversation with each party. Fundamentally, the caucuses are confidential.
Once the parties have been heard the negotiations are front and center. Building on shared interests is the foundation of any successful negotiation.
Some of the agreements will be a win-win, some will be barely tolerable. The outcome shall be better than potential litigation.