Suggestions for Achieving an Effective Negotiation, Mediation, or Collaborative Law Meeting
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Preparation Before Meeting Identify the problem Think about what you really want Know your Best Case Scenario Know your Worst Case Scenario Dress appropriately Let your mediator or attorney know if you have special needs (diet, translator, wheelchair access, etc.) |
Behavior During Meeting Be nice – Be polite Use "I" statements instead of "You" statements Control your tone of voice and volume Don’t be insulting or insulted Agree to listen No name calling Control your emotions Treat others the way they want to be treated (Platinum Rule) Do not attack or threaten others |
Thinking/Tactics During Meeting Focus on the issues, not the person Be open-minded – be willing to explore new ideas Avoid ultimatums Stick to the facts – not assumptions Be willing to find new solutions Be willing to move from your entrenched position Focus on long-term best interests (solutions) Resist the temptation to go for short-term satisfaction Avoid stubbornness, retaliation, "I told you so," etc. Consider offering an apology |
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© 2019
All rights reserved |
Mark W. Batchelder
Attorney at Law |
Fort Worth, Texas
817-926-5555 |
