Negotiations.

Wherever people work together, there is a potential for conflict. This is particularly true in organizations where the needs and focus of the different stakeholders often are often in opposition. Conflict can negatively impact an organization's performance and effectiveness. Negotiation is a process used to help conflicting parties reach a mutually acceptable agreement. There are two primary factors that can affect the effectiveness of negotiations: The skill of the negotiator in conflict management skills and various situational variables. To be successful in negotiations, good preparation is essential. There are a number of tactics that a negotiator can use to help become better prepared for the negotiating table including information gathering about the strengths, weaknesses, and assumptions of the opponent. In addition, it is important for the negotiator to be mentally prepared for the negotiating table through an understanding of his/her own strengths, weaknesses, and assumptions as well.