Negotiate
- This article is part of the SM-201 Micropedia
Here's an acronym to turn a problematic situation into negotiation success:
N - Never be the first one to talk; get the facts first.
E - Enthusiasm and Energy are critical. Avoid letting people wear you down.
G - Set some Goals for dealing with the new challenges.
O - Ask Open-ended questions. You'll get more information and will also learn a lot more.
T - Talk less, and listen more. Give the other person an opportunity to "vent," as he or she "blows off steam." Wait until the person is done, and then make the effort to remedy the situation.
I - Information is power. When you can honestly offer a solution immediately, do it. However, if you need to do some research, take the time to do it, and get back to the person as soon as possible.
A - Attitude is everything, so keep it positive. If someone is down in a pit, your plan should be to pull the person out, not fall in with that person.
T - Trust yourself. Keep remembering your talents and skills. Avoid letting the person make you feel inferior.
E - Exit and walk away if the situation gets worse instead of better. There's a limit to what you can do. As long as you've dealt with the person in the most professional, friendly, and efficient manner, you've done your job.
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