Skillspeed — Negotiation Skills

Skillspeed has a very nice program on Negotiation. Negotiation is a method by which people settle differences. It is a process by which two or more parties come to an understanding or agreement is reached while avoiding and dispute or clash of interest.

In any disagreement, individuals understandably aim to achieve the best possible outcome for their position (or perhaps an organization they represent). However, the principles of fairness, seeking mutual benefit and maintaining a relationship are the keys to a successful outcome of the entire discussion.

Let's just understand the different Stages of Negotiation

In order to achieve an outcome which is desirable to both parties , it may be useful to follow a structured approach to negotiation. For example, in a work situation, a meeting may need to be arranged in which all parties involved can come together.

The process of negotiation includes the following stages:

1. Preparation
2. Discussion
3. Clarification of goals
4. Negotiate towards a Win-Win outcome
5. Agreement
6. Implementation of a course of action

Just to get a quick understanding on two of the above points

1. Preparation

Before any negotiation takes place, a decision needs to be taken as to when and where a meeting will happen to address the problem and who will attend. Setting a limited timeline can also be helpful to prevent the disagreement from continuing.

This stage involves ensuring all the pertinent facts of the situation are known in order to clarify your own position. In the working example above, this would include knowing the ‘rules’ of the organization, to whom help is given when help is not felt appropriate and the grounds for such refusals. Your organization may well have policies to which you can refer in preparation for the negotiation.

Undertaking preparation before discussing the disagreement will help to avoid further conflict and unnecessarily wasting time during the meeting.

2. Discussion

During this stage, individuals or members of each side put forward the case as they see it, i.e. their understanding of the situation.

Key skills during this stage include questioning, listening & being able to clarify.

Sometimes it is helpful to take notes during the discussion stage to record all points put forward in case there is need for further clarification. It is extremely important to listen, as when disagreement takes place it is easy to make the mistake of saying too much and listening too little. Each side should have an equal opportunity to present their case.

If you are wanting to get more information on what all is addresses in the Negotiation program which is taken at Skillspeed you can visit the official website. and find all the required information.