Best Practices for Zoom Mediations

Allen Schreiber • April 8, 2020
Allen Schreiber, Birmingham Arbitrator and Mediator

Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have all been forced to move our businesses online. Everyone is using Zoom which immediately emerged as the “go-to” platform for video mediation/arbitration for the simple reason it offered “break-out rooms,” a function inexplicably absent in other available platforms. However, last week we were all confronted with a barrage of articles regarding the security issues in using Zoom.


Consequently, I have spoken to many of my colleagues and read many articles and share with you the latest tips for scheduling your Zoom mediations/arbitrations — or any other conference where security is at issue!


I suggest the following when setting up or participating in a Zoom conference:
  • Use a unique and private meeting number for each conference.


  • Require participants to use a password to enter the meeting.


  • Warn participants to keep their meeting link and password secure.


  • Lock the meeting once all participants have joined using the “lock” function available to the meeting host.


  • Advise participants against accessing the meeting via a public network i.e. coffee shop etc.


  • Use the Zoom waiting room feature.


Although not a perfect system, I believe these steps can allow for a confidential and secure process to conduct a mediation/arbitration or business meeting. If you are still unsure about using this platform, just call me and we can discuss your conflict resolution options while navigating through this unique time.


Schedule your next ADR session via our convenient online calendar, or call Carol Waldrop at 855-754-8807.