Very often, the best way to sort out a dispute or resolve a conflict is to talk to the other person or party, as the case may be. More than 95% of civil claims are settled through informal negotiation rather than litigation.
Disputes may arise in different areas of our lives, including marital issues, business deals, corporate problems, breach of contracts, or dissolution of business partnerships, among many more examples.
Why Should You First Consider Non-Legal Dispute Negotiation?
Learning how to negotiate and settle disputes out of court is less expensive, stressful, and time-consuming than going to court. Non-legal dispute resolution can also help you focus on contentious issues, and review creative, flexible solutions to the problem.
You can preserve relationships and privacy as court proceedings tend to be considered a matter of public record. However, it’s also essential that you negotiate a fair deal that protects your best interests.
Competent negotiation skills and strategies can help both parties reach a mutually acceptable solution without lengthy and expensive court proceedings. Even if there is an impending lawsuit, parties usually prefer to negotiate to see if things can be worked out.
Our experienced legal team describes effective negotiation strategies that can help you gain the upper hand at the negotiating table.
5 Top Strategies That Can Help You Win Negotiations
- Active Listening Skills
Negotiations often turn sour for various reasons. Listening carefully and quietly can alert you to spaces in the conversation where you can introduce new variables into the negotiation. These innovative tactics may pave the way for smoother communication and encourage the other party to become more open to your ideas.
- Learn to Identify Avoidance Tactics
During negotiations, you may have to deal with undercurrents of mistrust and suspicion and learn to handle negative vibes. Sometimes, a party may reach an impasse on purpose to stall the negotiation process. At other times, the impasse may be due to a genuine obstacle that needs to be resolved in order to move on.
- Stay Calm Even When the Negotiation Becomes Intense
It’s best to schedule a relaxed time for negotiation when the parties involved are not upset or volatile. Remember to be mindful of your words, tone and body language and observe the other party’s body language and non-verbal cues as well. As far as possible, keep the discussion courteous, calm, and free of emotion.
- Finalise Your Goals Right at the Start
We suggest starting the negotiation by describing the final goals of the process. In the absence of shared objectives, the negotiation is likely to continue aimlessly, making it difficult to reach an agreement.
- Consider Overarching Values
Many times, reaching an agreement on smaller issues can help reinforce trust and optimism that can pave the way for consensus on the main issues.Â
Above all, avoid aggression and threats and focus on resolving the issues at hand.
Consult Our Legal Team for Assistance
Negotiations are not lawsuits, but an experienced lawyer can help you understand your position better. We, at Owen Hodge Lawyers, are happy to advocate for your rights and protect your best interests during the negotiation process.
For more information regarding our premium range of legal services, please call us at 1800 770 780.
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