Q: “What’s the difference between a mediator and a large cheese pizza?”
A: “The pizza can feed a family of four.”1
Another difference between a mediator and pizza, is that pizza was not included as one of the best careers in 2009, while U.S. News and World Report selected mediation to its annual list. The criteria for determining which careers made the list included pay, prestige, income, job satisfaction, the difficulty of required training, job outlook according to the economy, the new federal administration, and environmentally conscious globalism trends.2 Mediation careers scored exceptionally well in the categories of prestige, job satisfaction, and required job training—receiving “A” grades. However, in the category of job outlook, mediation received a “C.”
Forest Motsen, author and experienced mediator, admits mediation is incredibly rewarding but acknowledges the tremendous financial and time requirements involved in becoming a successful mediator. In order to gain experience and develop skills, mediators often begin their careers by working pro bono. Many beginning mediators find it necessary to have another source of income to maintain a middle-class wage.
“If you have the gift of establishing trust, generating creative solutions, calming angry disputants, staying calm amid ambiguity and dissembling, and are willing and able to market yourself, mediation can be a win-win career for both you and your clients.”2
—Marty Nemko,
Author of Best Careers 2009
To participate in court-affiliated mediation proceedings, mediators are often required to complete a number of pro bono mediations combined with 30-40 hours of basic training. While certifications for mediators can vary, most states have no requirements for non-court-affiliated mediators. Mediators are encouraged to develop specialties including divorce, education, employment, and workplace mediation to gain distinction in this profession. Nemko recommends, “...with so many homeowners falling behind on their mortgage payments, mortgage renegotiation could be a strong niche for mediators.”3 Developing a solid reputation and spreading the word about their skills and areas of expertise will help mediators distinguish themselves as specialized mediators.
Challenges for becoming a mediator aside, Nemko emphasizes that “most mediators love their work, helping people beat their swords into plowshares.” Considerable prestige, job satisfaction rates, and contributions to society make this career choice enticing and a solid addition to the Best Careers 2009 list.1Levin, Diane. “All in a Day’s Work: is Mediation an Ideal Career Choice?” Online Guide to Mediation. 24
July 2006. mediationblog.blogspot.com
2Nemko, Marty. “Best Careers 2009.” U.S. News and World Report. 11 December 2008. www.usnews.com
3Nemko, Marty. “Best Careers 2009: Mediator.” U.S. News and World Report. 11 December 2008. www.usnews.com
