An Invitation to Mediate

The First Step to Resolution

Taking the first step and inviting someone to mediate shows courage and a commitment to resolving conflicts in a constructive way. It is a big step, but it shows that you genuinely care about finding a solution and moving forward in a positive way. When done with kindness and thoughtfulness, it can set the stage for a productive conversation where both sides feel heard and respected. It’s not just about resolving a conflict—it’s about opening the door to understanding and working together to find the best path forward.

A good way to start is by simply sharing why you think mediation could help, focusing on how it can improve communication and make things easier for both of you. Let them know it’s a safe space where you can both talk things through with a neutral party and work toward a fair solution together. Most importantly, keep the conversation open and flexible—give them options for a mediator or timing so they feel included in the process. When people feel heard and valued, they’re more likely to approach mediation with an open mind and a willingness to work things out.

Here are some examples of how to approach mediation with a party to a dispute:

Example:

Hi [Name],

I wanted to reach out to suggest mediation as a way for us to work through our current disagreement about [specific issue]. It feels like a good opportunity for both of us to share our perspectives and find a solution that works. Would you be open to this? I was thinking we could aim for [proposed date/time], but I’m happy to work with your schedule if another time is better. Let me know what you think—I really believe this could be a positive step forward.

Example:

Hi [Name],

I’ve been thinking about how we can work through [specific issue or conflict], and I truly want us to find a way forward that works for both of us. I believe mediation could help us have a constructive conversation and reach a fair resolution. Would you be open to trying it out? If so, we can discuss options for a mediator and time that works for both of us. Let me know your thoughts.

Example:

Hi [Name],

I’ve been thinking about how we can handle things in a way that's best for [child/children's names], and I believe mediation could be a helpful step for us. It would give us a chance to work through important decisions together in a constructive and respectful way, especially when it comes to [child/children’s names] and their future. Would you be open to exploring this option? Let me know what you think, and we can figure out the next steps together.

Inviting someone to mediate demonstrates your willingness to prioritize communication and seek common ground, even during challenging times. You open the door to collaboration, fairness, and understanding, giving both parties a chance to express their perspectives in a neutral space. Ultimately, taking this step reflects a desire for meaningful progress and sets the tone for finding mutual respect and resolution.

Inviting the other party to check out our website is a great way to help them feel more comfortable with the mediation process. It gives them a chance to learn how it works and see how it can benefit both sides, making the idea of attending a little less intimidating. At Thompson Mediation & Arbitration, we’re here to support you every step of the way!