In my latest Canadian HR Law blog post, I provided some tips on how parties should approach mediation. These are based on my experience as counsel and as a mediator. They include:

1. Focus on the future, not the past
2. Let reason, not emotion, rule
3. Take time to assess your BATNA
4. Don't overestime the value of having your 'day in court'
5. Come with authority to settle, and with flexibility
6. Take advantage of the opportunity to settle – but…