Learning How To Negotiate In Difficult Circumstances No matter how hard you try, sooner or later you will find yourself in a situation of having to iron out a difficult situation. This can be scary, but fortunately with the right tools in place, you can make your way through and come to a solution that will work for all concerned. Read on to learn more.
The first thing you should remember when heading into negotiations is to look on the bright side. If you start out upbeat, you will be far more likely to come out with a satisfactory result. Remember that in negotiations, it is better to strive for all parties concerned to come to a mutual agreement.
It’s best to meet in person in neutral territory. Avoid meeting in the other person’s office or in your own. Instead, choose a place that has no associations for anyone. If you are not able to meet to negotiate, use an online option that will still allow you to see and hear each other. Do not try to negotiate by e-mail. This is a recipe for catastrophe.
Be sure you completely understand the issues at hand and are prepared to discuss them calmly and intelligently. Start out your meeting with a clear definition of the problem and the matters that need to be addressed. In this way, everyone will be on the same page. Be sure your negotiations are about the facts at hand, and do not let your emotions get the better of you.
Assess yourself honestly. Be willing to accept responsibility for ways in which you may have contributed to the problem. In your mind, establish some clear parameters in regards to the outcome of the negotiations. For example, there may be some areas that you simply must have satisfied and others where you could be more flexible. Be clear on this from the outset.
Keep a forward motion. Focus on finding solutions and creating alternatives rather than dwelling on mistakes and wrongs in the past. Completely sidestep laying blame. Simply start where you are and focus on improving the situation and solving the problem as it currently stands.
Avoid maneuvering and manipulating. Communicate transparently by simply and honestly presenting your concerns and goals. Recognize areas where your concerns and goals are the same as or similar to those of the other party. This recognition of commonality will help you work together for a successful resolution.
Put yourself in the other person’s place. Try to empathize and understand the person’s motivations. Be sure to listen carefully and seek out areas where you can selectively agree. Be certain you understand by rephrasing the other person’s statements. Remember you are trying to move toward resolution together. You are not simply trying to win.
When you have arrived at a mutually agreeable solution, congratulate yourselves on your hard work. Shake hands on your agreement and leave your meeting with a sense of renewed friendship or partnership. Remember to carry this success forward in all of your dealings with this person and others.
