By Karly Wannos, Esq. | Employment Attorney | Florida Supreme Court Certified Circuit Civil Mediator

At The Wannos Law Firm, we frequently help clients navigate employment disputes through mediation—a powerful tool for resolving cases efficiently and confidentially. But one tactic we occasionally see (or get asked about) is this:

“What if we just walk out early to put pressure on the other side?”

It may sound bold. But is it effective? In most cases, the answer is: No.

The Intention Behind Walking Out

The idea behind prematurely ending mediation is usually strategic—one party believes leaving the negotiation will create urgency or make the other side panic and offer more favorable terms.

But in practice, this approach often backfires for several reasons:

1. It Undermines Good Faith Negotiation

Mediation works best when both parties are willing to engage openly and in good faith. Walking out early can signal to the mediator—and the opposing side—that you’re not genuinely interested in resolution, damaging your credibility.

2. It Shuts Down Communication

Even if talks are difficult, mediation is often the first time both sides are really listening to each other. Exiting too soon halts the momentum and may close the door on creative solutions that only emerge through continued dialogue.

3. It Can Escalate Tensions

Rather than applying pressure, walking out can entrench the other party’s position. What was a negotiation may quickly turn into a hardened legal battle, especially if they interpret your exit as bad faith or posturing.

4. Missed Opportunity for Progress

Many mediations feel like they’re going nowhere—until they suddenly are. It's common for parties to reach resolution late in the session. Walking away too early could mean walking away from a deal that was just a few steps away.

A Better Strategy: Stay Engaged

As a Florida Supreme Court Certified Circuit Mediator for Florida employment law cases, Karly Wannos has seen that the most successful outcomes come from persistence. Even if the path is frustrating or slow, staying in the room—and continuing the conversation—can lead to results that save time, money, and stress.

Thinking About Mediation?

Whether you're a business or an employee, mediation can be a smart, strategic alternative to litigation—when approached the right way. If you're considering mediation in an employment dispute, we can guide you through the process and help you stay focused on resolution.

 Contact Employment mediator, Karly Wannos, to learn more about our mediation services or to schedule mediation.