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September 30, 2011

Misunderstandings in Mediation

~ written by Vicki L. Jenkins, ADR Chairperson

We know how one speaks and how one listens impacts how persuasive we are in negotiation and/or mediation. Misunderstandings can occur because of how the message was delivered rather than the content or subject of the message.

Is there a difference in how men and women communicate? There is a belief that gender can impact communication between men and women having different linguistic styles. When a mediator has an understanding of communication styles, that knowledge can be used to foster better resolution between the parties.

Join us the Columbus Bar ADR Committee on Friday noon, October 7, when Amy Mass, counsel for The Hanover Insurance Group and an adjunct professor at Capital University Law School will explore the subject of communication styles and gender – and its impact on negotiation and mediation. We will view scenes from the movies Legally Blond, The Godfather and A Civil Action to examine how gender communication style differences affect the way information is processed and communicated. And how negotiation is experienced and agreements are reached.

Ms. Mass has taught dispute resolution since 2004 and is a frequent lecturer in the areas of ADR, Negotiation and Mediation for organizations including the American Bar Association, the Ohio State Bar Association and the Ohio Association of Civil Trial Attorneys.