The Mediator's Toolkit: Formulating and Asking Questions for Successful Outcomes

by Gerry O'Sullivan

“Dives deep into the psychology of information and emotion in conflict situations . . . Highly recommended for facilitators and negotiators as well as mediators.” —Jennifer Beer, author of The Mediator’s Handbook and negotiation instructor at Wharton School, University of PennsylvaniaKnowing how to formulate and ask incisive questions to get to the core of a conflict, challenge entrenched thinking, and shift perspectives is the key to successful conflict resolution. The Mediator’s Toolkit employs the author’s powerful “S Questions Model” to provide readers with the skills and tools to do just that. It addresses four dimensions of successful questions for the subject matter dimension, the structure dimension, the information-seeking dimension, and the shifting thinking dimension. The toolkit clearly theory behind each question type, including exploration of relevant neuroscience and psychologyThe purpose of different types of questionsHow the questions workWhen to use different types of questionsHow to build and apply questions to mediation in a non-threatening wayThis essential practical guide will radically sharpen, focus, and improve the questioning skills of qualified mediators, students, lecturers, trainers, and those using questions to challenge and effect change, in any context.

259 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 18, 2018

About the author

LinkedIn Profile:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerryosul...

I have over 35 years of experience in training and conflict resolution work. Prior to concentrating on advanced Mediation Training for asking powerful questions, I delivered Mediators’ Institute of Ireland (MII) accredited mediation training for many years and reached advanced level membership with that Institute (themii.ie).

I hold a Diploma in Adult and Continuing Education and have provided training and mediation services for industry, public and semi-state bodies, inter-agency groups, organisational and workplace settings and in the local development and community sector.

Internationally:
I have delivered In-Person training in Palestine, Cuba, Germany and the U.K., as well as online training to other international regions.

Reviews

[Kathleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is, by far, the most practical and insightful book I have read on mediation. It provides theories, specific examples and checklists on how to formulate questions to help clients move past obstacles to greater understanding and transformation. I will never mediate or coach in the same way again. Gerry O'Sullivan "gets" the magic behind mediation, and I am so grateful for her expertise.

[Paul O'Raw · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had just purchased Gerry’s book when I received a request to mediate from an organisation, so I was able to put it to practical use immediately. In preparing for the joint mediation session, I found the layout of the book and the index very helpful in referring me to the sections I needed to help clarify my plan for the session. For example, chapter 16 on Underlying Interests; it reminded me of what I was trying to achieve and how to get there effectively and sensitively to both parties. It helped me facilitate the mediation - confident and prepared. In preparing yourself for mediation I think you will find yourself, like me, taking the book down off the shelf often.

[Gabriella · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely worth reading. Incredibly interesting book to anyone who is interested about how to deal with people during mediation. The tips Mrs O'Sullivan gives are amazing and really practical. Highy recommended book.