How to Coach Yourself and Others How to Influence, Persuade and Motivate | Page 32

A strategy for successful negotiations  Listen carefully to the arguments of the other party and assess the logic of their reasoning  Clarify issues you are not clear about by asking how, why, where, when and what questions.  List all the issues which are important to both sides and identify the key issues. Identify any personal agendas. Question generalizations and challenge assumptions.  Identify any areas of common ground.  Understand any outside forces that may be affecting the problem.  Keep calm and use assertive rather than aggressive behaviour. Use tact and diplomacy to diffuse tensions.  Remember :NO is a little word with big power!  Use both verbal and non-verbal persuasion skills. Use open, encouraging body language such as mirroring, not defensive or closed.  Know when to compromise. Offer concessions where necessary, but minor ones at first. Distinguish between needs: important points on which you can't compromise and interests where you can concede ground.  Allow the other party to save face if necessary via small concessions.  Make sure there is an agreed deadline for resolution  Decide on a course of action and come to an agreement. 33