Mediation is the solving of conflicts through common-sense. With the help of a neutral third-party, the conflicting parties solve their conflict themselves. The neutral third-party, the mediator, is in charge of the process. That means, he leads the conversation, and makes sure that the concerns of all parties receive fair and equal treatment. All disciplinary measures which may be necessary for a level-headed dialogue are in the hands of the mediator.

The advantage of this is that the conflict between the parties does not further escalate because the parties begin to argue over such things as the topicality of what is said, the length of contributions, being interrupted, mutual respect, and simple decency. Whereas the mediator is responsible for the setting and course of the conversation, the conflicting parties are responsible for the choice of topics which are to be dealt with, the content of the conversation, and the solution in itself. In this way, it is impossible to make the mediator responsible for the solution. The crucial element in any mediation is the responsibility of the conflicting parties for their own conflict.

This method of problem-solving has proven to be more stable and sustainable. Mediation is a clever and prudent choice whenever there is an interest in maintaining the relationship between the conflicting parties beyond the end of the conflict. This especially holds true for relationships: - between companies and clients or suppliers - among employees or between employee and employer within a company - between the managing board and the worker’s council of a company - among partners in law offices, consultancies, and doctor’s practices. This is also the case when dealing with conflicts related to the inheritance of a business and of course with divorces.

When you hear about the success of mediations in other countries, or a friend or acquaintance speaks enthusiastically about mediation, or worst case: your competitors have saved a lot of money by means of mediation – then it is good to know somebody who is in the know.