Negotiation and Conflict Resolution - The Different Styles to Understand

When it comes to conflict resolution, negotiation is considered to be one of the most effective strategies. If you begin searching how negotiation and conflict resolution make the connection, you may discover a number of negotiation styles that include accommodation, avoidance, compromise, collaboration, and competition. Any one of these five styles of negotiation can be applied depending upon the situation.

So what are these styles of negotiation and how can they help with conflict resolution? Let us find out below:

Accommodation

In this type of negotiation, relationships and cooperation are given a higher level of importance than that of the substance of the agreement. The negotiators here focus on future interactions while trying to get more lucrative and better agreements with the other party in the future as compared to the current agreement.

Avoidance

Avoidance is a style of negotiation where the negotiator tries to avoid conflicts for minimizing the tensions. Basically, they leave the responsibility on the shoulders of the other party while remaining neutral and differing from the other party. Instead of keeping their own interests at the forefront, they tend to sacrifice their own interests to avoid conflict. In such a type of negotiation instead of being mutually cooperative and focused on the agreement, the negotiator emphasizes avoiding any type of confrontation.


 

Collaboration

Collaboration is a negotiation strategy where the negotiator works with the other party for achieving a common goal by being honest and straightforward. Here, the goal of the negotiator is to have open and creative joint communication for developing a better and mutually beneficial solution. In the collaboration strategy, cooperation is the key. This approach helps each party in learning and having better interaction. It is a long-term solution that needs ample time to listen for understanding to address interests.

Competition

Such a negotiation strategy is more about competing and being assertive. Here the negotiator focuses on their own needs and wins rather than considering their counterpart. In such a strategy there is more aggressiveness, domineering, and much lower cooperation. Here substance matters the most and not the relationship.

Compromise

The intention of the compromise strategy is to focus on near equal concessions by both parties. Here, the compromising party looks for quick decisions and resolutions rather than spending more time in understanding the interests and working on a mutual solution.

Bottom Line:

Each of these styles comes with pros and cons. Depending on the situation you can choose your style of negotiation. If you are more focused on saving the relationship then accommodation or collaboration can be your best option. However, if relationships are of minimal importance for you, then avoidance or competition-type negotiations may be a better choice for you. You need to understand your needs and priorities to know which negotiation technique will work best for you in a given situation!

Conclusion:

Mike Gregory is a professional speaker, an author, and a mediator. Contact Mike directly at mg@mikegreg.com and at (651) 633-5311. He is an expert when it comes to negotiation and conflict resolution. For more information visit https://mikegreg.com/mediation-and-conflict-resolution.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Career in Conflict Resolution Mediation - Few Things to Know

Image
Do you want to pursue a career as a conflict resolution mediator? Want to know what are the eligibility criteria and other aspects of becoming a successful conflict resolution mediator? Then check the post below: Educational Requirements for becoming a conflict resolution mediator Each state has its own rules. Some states have no requirements. Others require a specific amount and type of training, to pass a test, to have so many hours of mediation experience, and an annual required minimum amount of continual professional education.  Some states require a minimum level of education. However, the job specialties in conflict resolution generally require at least a Bachelor's degree. Certain universities like George Mason University in Virginia, American University in D.C. offer specific degrees in Mediation and Conflict Resolution.   You can also join one of the professional organizations that specialize in providing the classes on Mediation and Conflict Resolution such as the Associ
Read more

Top Strategies to Resolve Conflicts at Workplace

Image
Conflicts in workplaces often occur due to differences in opinions and perceptions where conversations turn into arguments and in certain situations it can become deep-rooted. When the aggressiveness of workplace conflicts is not addressed or ignored, then the conflict might cause negative impacts and result in less professional interactions and affect the overall productivity of the organization. Although every individual has his unique opinion and viewpoint, when working together as a team collaboration requires listening, understanding, and compromise. However, at times these compromises convert into disagreements. When the situations get out of hand, it becomes the responsibility of the manager to find ways to help participants resolve the conflicts within their team. Conflict resolution can be conducted via one-to-one meetings, team meetings and even HR intervention may be required. If you too are looking for conflict resolution strategies, then read on the post below. For an o
Read more

Strategic Conflict Resolution in the Workplace

Image
Michael Gregory Consulting, LLC offers expert guidance in resolving workplace conflicts effectively through mediation. Discover practical approaches to handling disputes, from setting ground rules to achieving closure, ensuring a positive and collaborative work environment. With the assistance of a qualified mediator like Michael Gregory, navigate conflicts with confidence. Contact us at mg@mikegreg.com or call (651) 633-5311 for assistance. In the dynamic environment of any workplace, conflicts are bound to arise. Differences in perspectives, misunderstandings, and clashes in temperaments can lead to miscommunications and hinder productivity. As a responsible manager, it's crucial to address these conflicts promptly and effectively to maintain a harmonious work environment. Here are practical approaches to handling workplace conflicts with mediation: Set Specific Ground Rules: To facilitate effective conflict resolution through mediation, establish clear ground rules. Determin
Read more