Frequently Asked Questions
Who can use Mediator IN A BOX?™
All people of all ages can benefit from the content in MEDIATOR IN A BOX™, but children under 10 years of age will appreciate adult guidance.
What kinds of conflicts can be solved with the box?
The mediation process works for all kinds of conflicts. It doesn’t matter if the conflict is recurring or happens only once. Using the box will improve how you deal with conflict. The more you use it, the easier it gets, and the better your skills become.
How long does it take?
Use only as many cards as you need to reach a resolution. Once you are familiar with the process, you may only need 20 minutes. For longer standing or more complicated situations, schedule an hour. If you need more than an hour, schedule another session and pick up where you left off.
Can all conflicts be resolved?
If you end a session with one piece of knowledge that you didn’t have before using the box, we consider that a success. Even if the conflict is not yet resolved, between sessions and behind the scenes often something will shift that supports further discussion. Using MEDIATOR IN A BOX™ builds skills that will help with each successive session. Stick with it – the results are worth it.
Will our solutions last?
Because you work out your own solutions together, tailored to your specific situation, they tend to work better and last longer than those imposed by a third party. They can also be more creative – sometimes there is a hidden gem in a crazy idea. If you agree to a solution, but later find yourself unhappy, something you value has not been satisfied, then go to the What’s Happening booklet in the Help Packet for more information.
I'm conflict averse. Why would I need the box?
Most of us would rather avoid conflict, but it is impossible to completely eliminate conflict. Conflict is a natural result of two people seeing the world differently. Instead of ignoring it, MEDIATOR IN A BOX™ gives you a way to approach it. When you experience what it is like to talk about an issue rather than sweep it under the rug and live with it, you will be amazed.
What do I do about my sticky notes not sticking?
Sometimes the sticky notes don’t stay put. The best solution to this is to use a small piece of double sided tape when you are applying the sticky note pads to the appropriate place.
What happens when we run out of sticky notes?
You can use replacement sticky notes of a similar size purchased at a local store. We’ve also designed placeholders on the cards to show exactly what is printed on the sticky notes. If you don’t want to use sticky notes, different colored ink can help to keep track of each person’s input in the process.