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RIGHT BRAIN APPEALS

Using Humor As an Integral Part of Mediation

Humor can contribute to establishing a bond between the mediator and the parties and their counsel. It is best employed in a spontaneous manner in reaction to events or circumstances as they arise during the course of negotiations. Joke telling tends to be less productive as a means of establishing a rapport with the participants.

Humor should not be used too early in the process or in a manner that in any way diminishes the seriousness of the parties’ claims or defenses. To do so may be perceived as an effort undermine a party’s bargaining position.

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