Like many other professionals, a higher degree or an additional title on the part of a mediator will certainly give the service provider and service users more confidence. That said, I am inclined to think that certain mediation skills such as the listening and empathy skills as well as the not-giving-up attitude have very little to do with degrees and certificates. How to connect with a party within a short period of time and how to remain patient after 10 hours of mediation is a challenge to all mediators. My view is that passion is built on a good heart, quiet mind and perseverance. With passion and practice, one will be able to walk through the process with the disputants who expect to have your appropriate attitude, respect and occasional humour regardless your CV.
Without continuous practice, a trainer will be less ready to prepare for the unexpected and overcome impasses. Gradually, there will be a tendency of sticking to training with self-written dispute scenarios rather than walking at the same emotional and intellectual pace with the disgruntled parties and their smart legal representatives.
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