NCJ Number
92429
Date Published
1983
Length
11 pages
Annotation
Negotiation is the main skill which must be learned by all those involved in the dispute resolution process, since it permits people to maximize their abilities to exchange ideas and gives them a method and a structure to follow in finding new alternatives.
Abstract
Negotiation also develops climates which are best suited psychologically to lasting relationships, in which everyone can win something. Traditional methods of resolving conflicts among individuals, corporations, unions, interest groups, and governmental bodies are often inadequate. These procedures include adjudication, arbitration, and administrative procedures, all of which are structured and allow minimal exchange between individuals. In contrast, informal devices such as mediation, collective bargaining, conciliation, fact-finding, and the use of the good offices of a third party allow for more communication and better understanding between disputants. Negotiators who are also attorneys have applied negotiation skills to these dispute resolution processes to achieve successes in a variety of situations involving businesses. Successful negotiators view negotiation as a continuing life process whereby no issue is irrevocably closed, even after agreements are reached and papers signed. Negotiators have open minds and are aware of both their needs and of their opponents' needs. They are flexible and quickly able to establish mutual goals and interests. They present creative alternatives which will meet the opposer's needs. Negotiators meet their goals while contributing to the achievement of the organization's goals and the goals of society.