Practice Needs-Based Negotiation: Skill 1: Articulate the difference between needs-based negotiation and other common forms of negotiation

Learning Needs-Based Negotiation will give you a sense of ease and creativity as you face the most difficult situations in life. You will be able to enter into challenging dialogues with a confidence that all needs can be honored.

There are three key distinctions that make Needs-Based Negotiation different from other forms of negotiation. First, in Needs-Based Negotiation, the quality of connection is the top priority. We trust that when there is a particular quality of connection, collaboration and creativity become accessible.

Second, when the aliveness of needs/values in the present moment informs the process, we find truly effective strategies, solutions, and agreements.

Lastly, Needs-Based Negotiation is inclusive. It rests on a confidence that each person can be equally honored and respected.

Skill 1: Articulate the difference between needs-based negotiation and other common forms of negotiation

Because we trust connection to universal needs as a way forward, we prioritize identifying and connecting to needs over talking about strategies and associated details. 

When we use the word negotiation we are referring to both the unconscious and conscious, and the nonverbal and verbal negotiations around needs that are happening any time you are interacting with another living being, which is all the time, at some level.

Practice

On your own, write what forms of negotiation you most often use in your life. What are the most common skills you use? What feelings are most often present for you? What needs do you most often negotiate around?