Emily Gould & Edwin Rutsch: Dialogs on How to Build a Culture of Empathy

• 00:00 Introduction

• (transcription pending)

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Empathy as a Key to Successful Mediation
According to one veteran mediator, creating empathy between the parties is a significant way to achieve a successful outcome. In the Fall 2010 issue of the Vermont Lawyer, Emily Gould writes:

'My own experience in both conventional law practice and as a mediator and conflict coach has taught me that empathy is a valuable skill for creating good outcomes, but also a way of being in the world that brings our world to life. Empathy stands shoulder-to-shoulder with persuasion as a means for motivating others and stimulating collaboration, creativity, and agreement.'

Empathic Mediation and Empathic Communication
Beneath the positions and strategies of people in conflict lies a magnetic field of possibility, our common humanity, ready to invite resolution. Empathic Mediation is a structure for resolving conflict that taps into this rich source of resolution with empathy.

Using the skills of Empathic Communication, the mediator creates a safe, and balanced environment in which people can be heard as they wish to be heard. 

This model differs from other structures for negotiation in that strategic thinking is delayed until after empathic connection has been established between the participants. .. 

Emily Gould brings 30 years combined experience as a coach, mediator, facilitator, and attorney to her conflict assistance practice.