How can you handle group members resistant to mediation or facilitation?

1 Assess the situation

Before you attempt to engage group members in mediation or facilitation, you need to assess the situation and understand the sources and impacts of the conflict. You can use tools such as conflict mapping, stakeholder analysis, or surveys to identify the main issues, interests, and positions of the parties involved. You also need to evaluate the readiness and suitability of the group for mediation or facilitation, based on factors such as urgency, complexity, and relationship quality.

2 Build rapport and trust

One of the common reasons why group members may resist mediation or facilitation is a lack of rapport and trust with the mediator or facilitator, or with other group members. You can build rapport and trust by establishing your credibility, neutrality, and empathy as a mediator or facilitator. You can also create a safe and respectful space for dialogue, where group members can share their perspectives and feelings without fear of judgment or retaliation. You can use techniques such as active listening, paraphrasing, summarizing, and acknowledging to show your understanding and appreciation of the group members' views and emotions.

5 Seek external support

Sometimes, you may need external support to handle group members resistant to mediation or facilitation. You can seek support from other mediators or facilitators, who can provide you with advice, guidance, or assistance. You can also seek support from other stakeholders, such as managers, sponsors, or experts, who can influence or incentivize the group members to participate in mediation or facilitation. You can also seek support from other resources, such as training, coaching, or mentoring, that can enhance your skills and confidence as a mediator or facilitator.

6 Follow up and evaluate

Finally, you need to follow up and evaluate the mediation or facilitation process and the results. You can follow up with the group members individually or collectively, to check on their progress, satisfaction, and challenges. You can also provide them with support, feedback, or recognition, as needed. You can also evaluate the effectiveness and impact of the mediation or facilitation process, using tools such as surveys, interviews, or observation. You can also use the evaluation to identify the strengths and weaknesses of the process, and to learn and improve for future situations.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?