The Mediator's Toolkit offers an array of methods for mediators to develop the skills to formulate and ask strategic questions that shift perspectives and result in successful mediated outcomes in any context.

Learn how to formulate and ask penetrating, paradigm-shifting questions for successful outcomes in any conflict

"An invaluable analysis, not merely of questions, but of a range of process interventions, to equip mediators in all sectors to deepen the effectiveness of their work."
- Tony Allen, mediator and senior consultant, CEDR, London

"A must-have book. It strikes the right balance between theory and practice making sure mediators know what to ask and why these questions are important. "
- Dr. Juan Diaz-Prinz, Mediator and Trainer in Conflict Management, Berlin, Germany

KNOWING HOW to formulate and ask incisive questions to get to the core of a conflict, challenge entrenched thinking, and shift perspectives are the main challenge for mediators and the key to successful conflict resolution.

The Mediator's Toolkit employs the author's powerful "S Questions Model," to provide readers with the skills and tools to develop and ask strategic questions that will shift the thinking and approaches of parties in conflict. The S Questions Model toolkit dives into four dimensions of successful questions for mediation: the subject matter dimension, the structure dimension, the information seeking dimension, and the shifting thinking dimension. The toolkit clearly explains:

• The theory behind each question type, including exploration of relevant neuroscience and psychology
• The purpose of different types of questions
• How the questions work
• When to use different types of questions
• How to build and apply questions to mediation in a non-threatening way.

This essential practical guide will radically sharpen, focus, and improve the questioning skills of qualified mediators, students, lecturers, trainers, and those using questions to challenge and effect change, in any context.

"Questions are the steering wheel for navigating difficult conversations, and at long last mediators have a valuable guide in the Mediator's Toolkit. Highly recommended."
- Jennifer Beer, co-author, The Mediator's Handbook

"Stands out among all books for mediators and trainers."
- Irena Vanenkova , former executive director, International Mediation Institute

GERRY O'SULLIVAN is a mediator, trainer, and facilitator with over 30 years' experience in conflict resolution and training. She is an advanced member of the Mediators' Institute of Ireland (MII), a member of the US-based Mediators Beyond Borders Consultants Team, and has delivered training with Lawyers Without Borders. Gerry is Director of O'Sullivan Solutions, and lives on the southwest coast of Ireland.