THE IMPORTANCE OF ACTIVE LISTENING

If you are considering  engaging in negotiation or mediation, one of the skills you need to factor in, is the skill of ‘active listening’.

1) All too often when people want their way,  they fall into two possible traps. The first is a reluctance to listen and consider the other party’s needs.

2) The second trap is listening only for the purpose of reply as though they were engaged in debate. It’s important to understand that a negotiation or mediation is not a debate. It’s a purposeful discussion.

3) In order to reach any agreement ‘active listening’ involves hearing and considering what is important to another party. Negotiation and mediation seek to consider everyone’s interests not just yours.

4) Since preparation for negotiation or mediation is always invaluable, why not practise ‘active listening’ in a series of simulations so that you’re ready when you need to be.