Negotiation Skill
What is negotiation? This refers to discussing of issues in a calm and open manner so as to reach an agreement or consensus based on some understanding
Or
The skills one needs to work out a problem or difference with someone else
Negotiation is an important skill in interpersonal relationships. It involves assertiveness, empathy and interpersonal relationships and also the ability to compromise on issues without compromising one’s principles. It involves being able to cope with potentially threatening or risky situations in interpersonal relations including peer pressure, state one’s own position, and build mutual understanding. It is based on understanding that all parties are well informed.
Importance of negotiation
- Helps to deal with peer pressure
- Helps to deals with internal conflicts
- Helps in decision –making process
- Increased effective communication
- Improves self-concept
Situations that require negotiation
- Peer pressure
- Pre-marital sex
- Drug abuse
- War
- Internal conflicts
- Juvenile delinquency
Negotiation techniques
1. Consider the other person
- Listen to the other person
- Validate the other person’s self-worth
- Be consistent
- Avoid dogmatism
- Don’t patronize
- Don’t interrupt
2. Be calm and stay rational
- Avoid distributive messages
- Personal criticisms
- Rejection
- Blame
- Hostile remarks
- Sarcasm
- Prescription
- Learn to distinguish among messages that are assertive arguments and hostile
- Don’t catastrophize
- Take control of your anger
3. Speak Precisely
- Be specific
- Avoid generalization
- Use ‘I’ messages
- Be descriptive
- Stay focused and in the moment in time
4. Keep moving toward (win-win)
- Establish a frame of reference
- Clarify the issue
- Be open
- Take time to find long term solutions
- Accentuate the positive
5. Be positive
- Be immediate
- Be encouraging
- Relieve tension
6. Be Accommodating collaborating: win win
Values associated with negotiation skill
- Tolerance
- Responsibility
- Co-operation
- Honesty
- respect
