Experience in a range of backgrounds can qualify you for family mediator posts. Your background in law, social work, education or counselling can get the attention of employers. Law qualification is helpful, but not essential. Several legal professionals, especially family law solicitors and legal executives choose to work as family mediators. Experience in solving conflicts – in paid or voluntary roles can also be helpful, especially if you don't have the relevant academic qualifications. You can gain experience working at counselling services of different kind.

You can apply to a family mediation service as a trainee. Such positions are open to persons who have a relevant degree/diploma or work experience. There also may personality tests to ascertain your fitness for the job.

After joining as a trainee, you can gain further qualifications to become fully qualified as a family mediator. The Family Mediators' Association, National Family Mediation, the Law Society, etc offer and regulate training programs. You need to keep your knowledge and skills updated throughout your career.