How to get a job in mediation.
Mediation in a fast growing career choice. However if you are not an experienced mediator then finding your first job can be a long process. As an experienced mediator, I found it frustrating to see the blocks to entry that were stopping new mediators from entering the conflict resolution profession.
Here I present my insiders guide to getting your first mediation job...
1.Find a niche
The catch all term of mediation covers many areas. Being a successful mediator is all about being an expert in a specific area of mediation.
Do research in all areas of mediation before you decide which to specialise in. Popular mediation career choices include divorce, legal, family, corporate and conflict zone (diplomatic conflict resolution). Do plenty of research first, to discover which area of conflict resolution would suit you best as a career choice. Where you live could be a factor. For example you could live in a town with loads of family mediators - if so you would have to ask yourself if this type of mediation already has a crowded marketplace. Last if you are steadfast in your desire to enter a certain segment of the conflict resolution market consider that you may have to be flexible in location and pay.

2.Be pro-active
Sitting around hoping for a mediation job to find you isn\'t going to work - mediation jobs are highly competitive. If you\'re only using generic job boards you will struggle to find a job. Mediation is a niche career, and so you must find the communities that cater to this niche. The internet is a great place for this (in a way that was not possible when I started out in my career in mediation). Learn where the best online communities are (Beyond Intractability and Conflict Gateway both offer regularly updated jobs boards). Also remember that communities are about contributing. Don\'t just register and wait for jobs. Being more involved in these online communities means making more contacts - this can open doors for you. I got my big break in mediation by using an online forum - it led me to a summer job working as a mediator in Japan.

3.Pro-bono is a massive plus
Qualifications are good but experience is king in mediation. It\'s a bit of a chicken and eggs scenario getting your foot on the ladder. An easy way to do this is to go pro-bono. In the US and UK local authorities offer volunteer mediation programs - a great way to gain experience. They are great for gaining practical experience and getting a well known employer on your resume. You can also advertise your services for free on social media networks in Linkedin and on groups. Lastly many people find it hard to do this but sell yourself! Don\'t be afraid to cold call companies or write a letter detailing your experiences and why you would be prepared to work as an apprentice to more experienced mediators. Eventually you will see offers to take up cases coming your way.
4.Ask for experience
Mediators are usually incredibly nice people! They will not mind if you ask them for a few tips. If you know the niche you want to go for then find some leaders in that field and give them a call or email - you never know where you conflict resolution could lead to! Please don\'t worry about asking for insider tips or how they got started - they will be happy to tell you. Try not to make it look like you are out to steal clients however. Remember as well that most mediators will be glad to answer questions but that does not make them your go to contact - try not to pester them too much. Finally ask first if you can keep them as a future contact.
5.Learn which qualifications matter
Mediation qualifications can differ in quality from rubbish to superb. In some states almost anyone can set themselves up as a mediator with little or no qualifications. It helps to do your research before you pick a course as they can be very pricey. Even if you have a Degree or Master\'s degree in a related field, you will likely have to take one of the accredited courses before serious job offers will arrive. Look for courses that have a practical element. The best courses will coach you through 30-40 hours of practical mediation experience before they accredit you. These higher quality qualifications will set you on a successful career in mediation giving you experience and contacts.

Whatever path you choose, mediation is a rewarding career, both spiritually and financially. Follow these tips and you will soon be on the path to mediation career bliss.


http://www.conflictgateway.com