A lot of people claim to be mediators. In fact, there are hundreds of mediators in the Atlanta area alone. So how do you choose one? What questions do you ask? Do you want a certain kind of experience? Is cost a factor? What about convenience? Who will be the best mediator for you?
Ask. Talk to the mediator. Some offer free telephone consultations, they can tell you about their training and background, their fees and their style of mediation. While a mediator cannot give you legal advice about your claim or problem, they can tell you if your problem is right for mediation.
But most imporantly, you need to get a feel for how a particular mediator communicates with you. A good mediator is one who understands not only the issues, but the people sitting at the table. A really good mediator is one who can communciate with you, listen to your problems and concerns, and then help you work through your issues to help you find a real solution. A solution that not only solves the problem, but one that you both can live with.
Experience can come from a classroom or from life. Some mediators have both.