Greetings from John
Despite the challenges that faced all of us during the last fifteen months, I am glad to report that, by working together, you and our Neutrals were able to continue to provide mediation and arbitration services to your clients. And now, things seem to be looking brighter in the coming months.
Not only did we continue to provide professional services to you and your clients in these difficult times, we also continued unabated to train our Neutrals. Most recently we convened - virtually - our 26th Annual Training Conference. This year’s program was special. It involved a Moderated Conversation between General Colin Powell and me during which he shared his “Lessons Learned Mediating Strategic Disputes.” It was fascinating. He confirmed for us that whether disputes are strategic (national, international) or in our own backyard, the best practices for resolving them are the same:
- Get the facts.
- Prepare to the fullest.
- Listen, Listen, Listen.
- Earn and maintain trust.
- Identify the underlying needs (interests) of the parties.
- Look for commonalities.
- Be Patient.
- Persevere!
General Powell was informative, gracious, and inspiring. We thank him for his significant input to our ongoing efforts to strive for Excellence.
As we go forward, I am happy to announce that we have been joined by new Neutrals. (See the announcements below.) Please join us in welcoming these outstanding individuals to this important work.
Our Neutrals continue to stand ready to help you and your clients when you need us the most. Please call upon us if we may be of assistance.
John McCammon
