Questionnaire Items Measuring Negotiation Skills
Definition: Negotiation Skills are about understanding the positions of each side and using interpersonal skills to be resolute in positions and setting boundaries yet also be flexible and strategic in generating solutions and building consensus. These skills help articulate well prepared and data driven positions that are persuasive. Having self-control and being perceptive to the emotions and positions of others and remaining calm and composed are also very important to becoming a skilled and effective negotiator.
Negotiation skills help achieve success in the workplace. The main components of negotiation skills include:
- Understanding Positions: Negotiators are thoroughly aware of the needs, motivations, and priorities of both parties, ensuring a clear understanding of key issues and the current business/market environment. They maintain a firm grasp on the interests, options, and problems to be solved, staying well-informed and focused on the situation.
- Resolute and Confident: Negotiators are resolute in positions to build trust, predictability, and consistency in negotiation strategy, confidently stating priorities and non-negotiables. They demonstrate focus, withstand pressure, and know the BATNA, and are prepared to walk away if core interests are not met.
- Setting Boundaries: Negotiators declines bad ideas to avoid poor decisions, maintain quality and high standards, set firm negotiating limits, and clearly communicate boundaries. They are prepared to walk away if core interests are not met.
- Being Flexible: Negotiators adapts to changing situations by being flexible in responses and knowing when to stand firm or compromise. They adjust plans and methods to address immediate challenges and current demands effectively.
- Strategic: Negotiators adapt strategies to meet current needs, distinguishing between different negotiation styles and using each party's motivations to find mutually beneficial solutions. They are skilled in relevant tactics, aware of past successful approaches, and flexible in adapting strategies for effective outcomes.
- Generating Solutions: Through collaborative problem-solving and transparent communication, negotiators aim for solutions that benefit all parties involved. They focus on creating mutually advantageous outcomes by aligning interests and developing value-driven, win-win solutions.
- Data Driven: Negotiators develop a unified strategy by integrating diverse viewpoints and resolving conflicts, use credible data and objective standards to justify positions. Collect and assess information from various stakeholders, leveraging it strategically to support positions with compelling evidence and maximize value.
Negotiation skills enable a manager to resolve conflicts effectively and build strong relationships with stakeholders, fostering a collaborative work environment. They also help in securing favorable terms in deals and contracts, directly contributing to the organization's success and profitability.
360-Degree Feedback Questionnaires Measuring Negotiation Skills:
Survey 1 (4-point scale; Competency Comments)
Survey 2 (4-point scale; Competency Comments)
Survey 3 (5-point scale; Competency Comments)
Survey 4 (5-point scale; radio buttons)
Survey 5 (4-point scale; words)
Survey 6 (4-point scale; words)
Survey 7 (5-point scale; competency comments; N/A)
Survey 8 (3-point scale; Agree/Disagree words; N/A)
Survey 9 (3-point scale; Strength/Development; N/A)
Survey 10 (Comment boxes only)
Survey 11 (Single rating per competency)
Survey 12 (Slide-bar scale)
360-Degree Feedback Questionnaire Items
The Negotiation competency in a 360-Degree Feedback assessment measures the ability to understand and firmly state positions, set boundaries, and be strategic and data-driven. Successful negotiators are well-prepared, articulate, and persuasive, both initially and in building consensus.
Understands the Positions
- Knows the current business/market environment.
- Is aware of the needs of the other party.
- Understands the motivations of the other party.
- Clearly understands the interests and choices of both parties.
- Thoroughly understands the interests and possibilities of both sides.
- Fully grasps both party's interests and options.
- Understands the current situation of both parties.
- Keeps a firm grasp on the issues and priorities.
- Is aware of what problems need to be solved.
- Stays well-informed about the issues and priorities.
- Ensures a thorough understanding of key issues and priorities.
Interpersonal Skills
- Maintains communication channels between parties in the negotiation.
- Establishes good working relationships with others.
- Maintains good interpersonal relationships with representatives from the other party.
- Leverages relationships with others to achieve goals.
- Able to collaborate with others in solving problems to create solutions that satisfy both parties' interests.
- Understands the other person's needs, concerns, and motivations.
- Establishes a positive connection with the other party to create a more collaborative atmosphere, making it easier to reach mutually beneficial agreements.
- Is an effective negotiator, fostering positive relationships and achieving good outcomes.
- Is respectful of others' views and opinions.
Resolute
- Is resolute in positions to build trust and predictability.
- Knows the BATNA (Best Alternative to a Negotiated Agreement) and is prepared to walk away if core interests are not met.
- Firmly believes the company is making the best offer.
- Is resolute when stating priorities and non-negotiables.
- Demonstrates confidence in own position and can influence the other party's perception of proposals being offered.
- Stays focused and avoids getting sidetracked by less important issues.
- Is resolute on positions to provide consistency in the negotiation strategy.
- Is resolute in positions to better withstand pressure and resist making hasty concessions.
Sets Boundaries
- Is able to decline bad ideas to avoid making poor decisions.
- Able to say "no" when it is essential to maintaining quality and high standards.
- Able to say "no" when necessary to effectively execute business strategy and meet long-term objectives.
- Clearly communicates boundaries and the reasons behind them.
- Is prepared to walk away if core interests are not met.
- Sets and maintains firm negotiating limits and boundaries.
Flexibility
- Able to adapt to changing situations.
- Is flexible in responses.
- Tailors approaches to more effectively address current demands.
- Alters plans to respond to immediate challenges.
- Adjusts methods to suit the current situation.
- Knows where to stand firm and where to compromise.
- Able to adapt to dynamic situations created by new information or unexpected challenges.
Strategic
- Able to distinguish and navigate between different negotiation strategies and styles.
- Adapts strategies to better meet the needs of the moment.
- Uses the motivations of each party to identify mutually advantageous solutions.
- Is aware of how past interactions may affect current or future negotiations.
- Knowledgeable of which negotiation approaches were successful in the past.
- Is aware of what strategies will be useful for the current negotiations.
- Skilled in tactics and strategies relevant for achieving successful negotiation outcomes.
- Adapts strategies to allow for flexibility in negotiations.
- Is aware of what strategies have been successful in the past.
Generates Solutions
- Aims for solutions that benefit both parties.
- Committed to working with both sides and openly sharing information.
- Creates mutually advantageous outcomes for all stakeholders.
- Dedicated to collaborative problem-solving and transparent information sharing.
- Focused on joint problem-solving and honest communication.
- Is able to align interests in the pursuit of mutual gains.
- Willing to brainstorm for new ideas or solutions.
- Develops win-win solutions that benefit everyone involved.
- Produces solutions that add value and satisfy all parties.
- Formulates value-driven solutions that are fair to all sides.
Data Driven
- Develops a unified understanding or strategy that acknowledges and addresses the different viewpoints and resolves conflicts.
- Bases arguments on objective standards or criteria, such as market value, legal standards, or expert opinions.
- Assesses the validity and relevance of each piece of information, considering the context and source.
- Collects information from various stakeholders, each with their own viewpoints, data, and interests.
- Justifies viewpoints using strong and credible data.
- Combines the valid points from each source to form a comprehensive and balanced perspective.
- Supports positions with compelling evidence and data.
- Maximizes the exchange of information concerning interests and positions.
- Uses focus groups to help determine how individuals will react with various negotiation scenarios.
- Uses solid data to substantiate positions effectively.
- Validates claims with robust and convincing data.
- Leverages information strategically to maximize its value.
Well Prepared
- Conducts necessary preparations before engaging in negotiations.
- Researches the needs of the other party to identify strengths and weaknesses of positions.
- Identifies goals and objectives desired as well as the strengths and weaknesses currently possessed.
- Prepares thoroughly by analyzing and understanding each party's interests, alternatives, and options.
- Maximizes information gathering efforts prior to negotiations.
- Always has a "game plan" prior to entering into negotiations.
- Prepares a timeline for any pre-negotiation activities/preparations.
- Thoroughly investigates the relevant issues prior to negotiation.
- Prepares a plan for steps needed to be taken before negotiations as well as the steps to be taken during negotiations.
- Spends more time preparing for negotiations than the amount of time in the negotiations.
Initial Moments
- Fosters a robust, collaborative setting; sets clear expectations; and introduces an agenda that matches priorities.
- Effectively sets the tone and agenda, creates rapport, and builds momentum at the start of negotiations.
- Establishes a strong, cooperative atmosphere; defines expectations; and presents a well-structured agenda aligned with key priorities.
- Makes initial offers based on high aspirations conveying a robust BATNA (Best Alternative to a Negotiated Settlement).
- Creates a constructive atmosphere, building a positive relationship for cooperative negotiations.
- Creates a decisive, team-oriented environment; clarifies goals; and outlines a strategic agenda.
- Establishes a protocol/structure at the beginning of the negotiations for the development of issues.
Skilled and Effective
- Actively listens to conversations to be able to recall important details later.
- Resolves difficult negotiations whether it is a contract, sub contract, legal or any other difficult negotiation fairly and reasonably.
- Able to manage and resolve conflicts constructively.
- Does what it takes to ensure that the final agreement aligns with core interests.
- Keeps the negotiations constructive and focused on problem-solving rather than conflict.
- A proficient conflict resolver who effectively navigates workplace disputes to maintain a harmonious and productive environment.
- Handles tough issues skillfully to foster positive solutions.
- Handles disputes with tact and diplomacy, ensuring that personal opinions do not interfere with professional responsibilities.
- Able to effectively manage conflicts.
Articulate
- Establishes clear communications to avoid misunderstandings.
- Able to clearly express thoughts and concerns.
- Changes communication styles to meet the listener's needs.
- Clearly articulates points and actively listens to the others to ensure that both sides understand each other's needs and concerns.
- Able to express themselves in a clear, convincing, and logical manner.
- Communicates calmly and reasonably, even in high-stress situations.
- Skilled in making clear and compelling arguments for their position.
- Speaks eloquently and coherently about a wide range of subjects.
- Maintains positive and rational communication even under pressure.
- Is an articulate and persuasive communicator.
Persuasive
- Influences others through rational argument and persuasion.
- Able to influence others to accept certain positions.
- Persuades the other party of the benefits of our proposals.
- Clearly explains the issues and interests at the start of negotiations.
- Is successful in making a compelling and influencial first offer.
- Clearly states positions during negotiations.
- Confidently puts forward an ambitious and well-justified initial proposal.
- Confidently delivers a strong and ambitious first proposal, backed by solid justification.
- Makes a persuasive and well-founded first offer.
- Presents a bold and well-supported initial offer with confidence.
Perceptive
- Identifies verbal and nonverbal cues to help interpret actions and messages.
- Understands the expectations of other parties in the negotiation.
- Is aware of and manages own emotions and understands the emotions of others which helps in navigating tense situations and in finding common ground.
- Engages in questioning to obtain necessary information and examine various alternatives.
- Proactively seeks information through questions to clarify and explore options.
- Poses questions to gain insights and avoid confusion while exploring different solutions.
- Uses questions to gather details and consider different possibilities, preventing misunderstandings.
- Listens intently when the other party is presenting information, interests, positions, offers or counteroffers.
Builds Consensus
- Finds shared interests and solutions that benefit all parties involved.
- Identifies tradeable interests that could facilitate reaching a consensus.
- Listens to all sides without bias and makes fair decisions.
- Proficient at reaching consensus in negotiations.
- Fosters a cooperative atmosphere where each side works together to resolve conflicts.
- Manages the timing and degree of concessions.
Calm and Composed
- Stays calm and focuses on the core issues to be discussed.
- Maintains a calm demeanor, even when discussions get heated.
- Stays composed and counters aggressive negotiation tactics by reframing unreasonable proposals or actions.
- Exhibits a composed and constructive attitude, even in challenging situations.
- Maintains a calm and positive demeanor to enhance problem-solving and relationship building.
- Stays positive and composed, promoting effective problem-solving and strong relationships.
- Keeps a composed and fair tone, even during challenging discussions.
Self-Control
- Able to control their emotional responses and correctly gauge the emotions of others.
- Is aware of potential emotional triggers that could negatively impact the negotiations.
- Maintains control over emotions to ensure a constructive environment.
- Controls emotional responses to maintain a productive atmosphere.
- Demonstrates emotional stability to facilitate productive problem-solving and relationship building.
- Manages emotions to reduce the impact of negativity.
- Takes steps to control emotional responses to avoid making rash decisions.
- Keeps emotions in check to avoid negative outbursts.
Employee Opinion Survey Items
Negotiation skills enable employees to be more productive and contribute greater to the company's bottom line. Whether you are a negotiator, your boss is a negotiator, or you are on a negotiation team, the following questions may help you identify strengths and weaknesses within your organization.
Understands the Positions
- The team stays well-informed about the issues and priorities.
- My manager knows the current business/market environment.
- My manager ensures a thorough understanding of key issues and priorities.
- The supervisor is aware of what problems need to be solved.
- The negotiations team is aware of the needs of the other party.
- The lead negotiator keeps a firm grasp on the issues and priorities.
- My manager clearly understands the interests and choices of various parties in a negotiation.
Interpersonal Skills
- People in my department have good working relationships with others.
- The supervisor understands each person's needs, concerns, and motivations.
- People in my department are respectful of others' views and opinions.
- My manager is able to establish a positive connection with the other party to create a more collaborative atmosphere, making it easier to reach mutually beneficial agreements.
- My manager is able to collaborative with others in solving problems to create solutions that satisfy both parties' interests.
Resolute
- In interactions with employees, the manager clearly communicates boundaries and the reasons behind them.
- I firmly believe the company is making the best offer in negotiations.
- In negotiations with suppliers, my manager stays focused and avoids getting sidetracked by less important issues.
- I feel I am able to say "no" when it is essential to maintaining quality and high standards.
- My manager is resolute on positions to provide consistency in the negotiation strategy.
Flexibility
- The lead negotiator tailors approaches to more effectively address current demands.
- In negotiations with clients, my manager is able to adapt to changing situations.
- Our negotiations team knows where to stand firm and where to compromise.
- The negotiations team is able to adapt to dynamic situations created by new information or unexpected challenges.
- My manager alters plans to respond to immediate challenges.
- I am flexible in responses during negotiations.
- The team adjusts methods to suit the current situation.
Strategic
- The negotiations team is knowledgeable of which approaches were successful in the past.
- My supervisor adapts strategies to better meet the needs of the moment.
- I am aware of what strategies have been successful in the past.
- The negotiations team is aware of what strategies will be useful for the current negotiations.
- My manager is able to distinguish and navigate between different negotiation strategies and styles.
- I am aware of how past interactions may affect current or future negotiations.
- The negotiations team adapts strategies to allow for flexibility in negotiations.
Generates Solutions
- The negotiations team formulates value-driven solutions that are fair to all sides.
- The team is dedicated to collaborative problem-solving and transparent information sharing.
- The team is able to align interests in the pursuit of mutual gains.
- My manager aims for solutions that benefit both parties.
- The lead negotiator is committed to working with both sides and openly sharing information.
- My manager develops win-win solutions that benefit everyone involved.
- The negotiations team creates mutually advantageous outcomes for all stakeholders.
- The team is focused on joint problem-solving and honest communication.
Data Driven
- Our negotiation team bases arguments on objective standards or criteria, such as market value, legal standards, or expert opinions.
- My manager is able to combine the valid points from each source to form a comprehensive and balanced perspective.
- The negotiations team develops a unified understanding or strategy that acknowledges and addresses the different viewpoints and resolves conflicts.
- Our department maximizes the exchange of information concerning interests and positions.
- The lead negotiator leverages information strategically to maximize its value.
- Our department justifies viewpoints using strong and credible data.
- The team collects information from various stakeholders, each with their own viewpoints, data, and interests.
- My manager assesses the validity and relevance of each piece of information, considering the context and source.
Well Prepared
- Our team prepares thoroughly by analyzing and understanding each party's interests, alternatives, and options.
- The negotiations team conducts necessary preparations before engaging in negotiations.
- My manager prepares a plan for steps needed to be taken before negotiations as well as the steps to be taken during negotiations.
- Our department maximizes information gathering efforts prior to negotiations.
- My manager always has a "game plan" prior to entering into negotiations.
- Our team identifies goals and objectives desired as well as the strengths and weaknesses currently possessed.
- I know how to research the needs of the other party to identify strengths and weaknesses of positions.
- My manager prepares a timeline for any pre-negotiation activities/preparations.
Initial Moments
- My manager creates a decisive, team-oriented environment; clarifies goals; and outlines a strategic agenda.
- Our negotiations team establishes a protocol/structure at the beginning of the negotiations for the development of issues.
- Our negotiating team creates a constructive atmosphere, building a positive relationship for cooperative negotiations.
- The team establishes a strong, cooperative atmosphere; defines expectations; and presents a well-structured agenda aligned with key priorities.
- The team effectively sets the tone and agenda, creates rapport, and builds momentum at the start of negotiations.
Skilled and Effective
- I feel our team resolves difficult negotiations whether it is a contract, sub contract, legal or any other difficult negotiation fairly and reasonably.
- The negotiating team is able to manage and resolve conflicts constructively.
- My manager is effective in managing conflicts.
- The negotiations team handles tough issues skillfully to foster positive solutions.
- My manager does what it takes to ensure that the final agreement aligns with core interests.
- Our department keeps the negotiations constructive and focused on problem-solving rather than conflict.
- My manager handles disputes with tact and diplomacy, ensuring that personal opinions do not interfere with professional responsibilities.
- In negotiations, I am able to actively listen to conversations to be able to recall important details later.
Articulate
- The team establishes clear communications to avoid misunderstandings.
- The negotiating team clearly articulates points and actively listens to the others to ensure that both sides understand each other's needs and concerns.
- My manager is an articulate and persuasive communicator.
- Members of the negotiating team communicate calmly and reasonably, even in high-stress situations.
- My manager is able to express themselves in a clear, convincing, and logical manner.
- My manager is able to clearly express thoughts and concerns.
Persuasive
- I feel that our team confidently delivers a strong and ambitious first proposal, backed by solid justification.
- I feel that I am able to influence others to accept certain positions.
- I feel our team is successful in making a compelling and influencial first offer.
- In negotiations, the leadership team clearly explains the issues and interests at the start of negotiations.
- The negotiating team clearly states positions during negotiations.
- In negotiating sales, my manager makes a persuasive and well-founded first offer.
Perceptive
- My manager effectively engages in questioning to obtain necessary information and examine various alternatives.
- In negotiations, my manager listens intently when the other party is presenting information, interests, positions, offers or counteroffers.
- People in my department are perceptive and proactively seek information through questions to clarify and explore options.
- My manager is aware of and managing own emotions which helps in navigating tense situations and in finding common ground.
Calm and Composed
- The supervisor keeps a composed and fair tone, even during challenging discussions.
- My manager exhibits a composed and constructive attitude, even in challenging situations.
- People in my department stay calm and focuses on the core issues to be discussed.
- My manager maintains a calm and positive demeanor to enhance problem-solving and relationship building.
Builds Consensus
- Proficient at reaching consensus in negotiations.
- My manager fosters a cooperative atmosphere where each side works together to resolve conflicts.
- Leadership listens to all sides without bias and make fair decisions.
- Manages the timing and degree of concessions.
Self-Control
- The supervisor is in control of their emotional responses to maintain a productive atmosphere.
- My manager maintains control over emotions to ensure a constructive environment.
- My manager is able to control their emotional responses and correctly gauge the emotions of others.
- The artibrator demonstrates emotional stability to facilitate productive problem-solving and relationship building.
Self-Assessment Items
When completing self-assessments for Performance Management or feedback, use these Negotiation skills statements to creatively highlight your strengths and weaknesses or inspire you to think about your position in new ways.
Understands the Positions
- I understand the current situation of both parties.
- You ensure a thorough understanding of key issues and priorities.
- I keep a firm grasp on the issues and priorities.
- You are aware of the needs of the other party.
- I clearly understand the interests and choices of both parties.
- You fully grasp both party's interests and options.
- I am aware of wht problems need to be solved.
- You know the current business/market environment.
- I stay well-informed about the issues and priorities.
- You thoroughly understand the interests and possibilities of both sides.
- You understand the motivations of the other party.
Interpersonal Skills
- You maintain communication channels between parties in the negotiation.
- You maintain good interpersonal relationships with representatives from the other party.
- You establish good working relationships with others.
- You leverage relationships with others to achieve goals.
- I am an effective negotiator, fostering positive relationships and achieving good outcomes.
- I am able to collaborate with others in solving problems to create solutions that satisfy both parties' interests.
- I establish a positive connection with the other party to create a more collaborative atmosphere, making it easier to reach mutually beneficial agreements.
- I understand the other person's needs, concerns, and motivations.
- You are respectful of others' views and opinions.
Resolute
- I demonstrate confidence in my positions and can influence the other party's perception of proposals being offered.
- I stay focused and avoid getting sidetracked by less important issues.
- You are resolute in positions to better withstand pressure and resist making hasty concessions.
- You know the BATNA (Best Alternative to a Negotiated Agreement) and is prepared to walk away if core interests are not met.
- I am resolute on positions to provide consistency in the negotiation strategy.
- You are resolute in positions to build trust and predictability.
- You are resolute when stating priorities and non-negotiables.
- You firmly believe the company is making the best offer.
Sets Boundaries
- You are able to decline bad ideas to avoid making poor decisions.
- You are able to say "no" when it is essential to maintaining quality and high standards.
- You are able to say "no" when necessary to effectively execute business strategy and meet long-term objectives.
- I set and maintain firm negotiating limits and boundaries.
- You are prepared to walk away if core interests are not met.
- I clearly communicate boundaries and the reasons behind them.
Flexibility
- You are able to adapt to changing situations.
- You are flexible in responses.
- You are able to adapt to dynamic situations created by new information or unexpected challenges.
- You know where to stand firm and where to compromise.
- I can tailor my approache to more effectively address current demands.
- I can alter plans to respond to immediate challenges.
- You adjust methods to suit the current situation.
Strategic
- You adapt strategies to better meet the needs of the moment.
- I am able to distinguish and navigate between different negotiation strategies and styles.
- I use the motivations of each party to identify mutually advantageous solutions.
- I am aware of how past interactions may affect current or future negotiations.
- I am knowledgeable of which negotiation approaches were successful in the past.
- I am aware of what strategies will be useful for the current negotiations.
- You are aware of what strategies have been successful in the past.
- I am skilled in tactics and strategies relevant for achieving successful negotiation outcomes.
- You adapt strategies to allow for flexibility in negotiations.
Generates Solutions
- You are committed to working with both sides and openly sharing information.
- You aim for solutions that benefit both parties.
- I produce solutions that add value and satisfy all parties.
- I develop win-win solutions that benefit everyone involved.
- You create mutually advantageous outcomes for all stakeholders.
- You formulate value-driven solutions that are fair to all sides.
- I am willing to brainstorm for new ideas or solutions.
- I am focused on joint problem-solving and honest communication.
- I am dedicated to collaborative problem-solving and transparent information sharing.
- You are able to align interests in the pursuit of mutual gains.
Data Driven
- You justify viewpoints using strong and credible data.
- I assess the validity and relevance of each piece of information, considering the context and source.
- You base arguments on objective standards or criteria, such as market value, legal standards, or expert opinions.
- You collect information from various stakeholders, each with their own viewpoints, data, and interests.
- I develop a unified understanding or strategy that acknowledges and addresses the different viewpoints and resolves conflicts.
- You combine the valid points from each source to form a comprehensive and balanced perspective.
- I leverage information strategically to maximize its value.
- You uses focus groups to help determine how individuals will react with various negotiation scenarios.
- You maximize the exchange of information concerning interests and positions.
- I support positions with compelling evidence and data.
- I validate claims with robust and convincing data.
- You use solid data to substantiate positions effectively.
Well Prepared
- You conduct necessary preparations before engaging in negotiations.
- You research the needs of the other party to identify strengths and weaknesses of positions.
- You identify goals and objectives desired as well as the strengths and weaknesses currently possessed.
- I always have a "game plan" prior to entering into negotiations.
- I maximize information gathering efforts prior to negotiations.
- I prepare thoroughly by analyzing and understanding each party's interests, alternatives, and options.
- I prepare a plan for steps needed to be taken before negotiations as well as the steps to be taken during negotiations.
- You prepare a timeline for any pre-negotiation activities/preparations.
- You spend more time preparing for negotiations than the amount of time in the negotiations.
- You thoroughly investigate the relevant issues prior to negotiation.
Initial Moments
- You create a decisive, team-oriented environment; clarifies goals; and outlines a strategic agenda.
- I foster a robust, collaborative setting; sets clear expectations; and introduces an agenda that matches priorities.
- I can make initial offers based on high aspirations conveying a robust BATNA (Best Alternative to a Negotiated Settlement).
- I create a constructive atmosphere, building a positive relationship for cooperative negotiations.
- I establish a strong, cooperative atmosphere; defines expectations; and presents a well-structured agenda aligned with key priorities.
- You establish a protocol/structure at the beginning of the negotiations for the development of issues.
- You effectively set the tone and agenda, create rapport, and build momentum at the start of negotiations.
Skilled and Effective
- You actively listen to conversations to be able to recall important details later.
- You resolve difficult negotiations whether it is a contract, sub contract, legal or any other difficult negotiation fairly and reasonably.
- I am a proficient conflict resolver who effectively navigates workplace disputes to maintain a harmonious and productive environment.
- You are able to manage and resolve conflicts constructively.
- You do what it takes to ensure that the final agreement aligns with core interests.
- You keep the negotiations constructive and focused on problem-solving rather than conflict.
- You handle tough issues skillfully to foster positive solutions.
- You handle disputes with tact and diplomacy, ensuring that personal opinions do not interfere with professional responsibilities.
- I am able to effectively manage conflicts.
Articulate
- You are able to clearly express thoughts and concerns.
- You change communication styles to meet the listener's needs.
- You establish clear communications to avoid misunderstandings.
- You are able to express themselves in a clear, convincing, and logical manner.
- You clearly articulate points and actively listen to the others to ensure that both sides understand each other's needs and concerns.
- I am skilled in making clear and compelling arguments for their position.
- I am an articulate and persuasive communicator.
- You maintain positive and rational communication even under pressure.
- I communicate calmly and reasonably, even in high-stress situations.
- You speak eloquently and coherently about a wide range of subjects.
Persuasive
- You are able to influence others to accept certain positions.
- You influence others through rational argument and persuasion.
- You persuade the other party of the benefits of our proposals.
- You clearly explain the issues and interests at the start of negotiations.
- You make a persuasive and well-founded first offer.
- You are successful in making a compelling and influencial first offer.
- I clearly state positions during negotiations.
- I confidently deliver a strong and ambitious first proposal, backed by solid justification.
- You present a bold and well-supported initial offer with confidence.
- I confidently put forward an ambitious and well-justified initial proposal.
Perceptive
- You understand the expectations of other parties in the negotiation.
- You identify verbal and nonverbal cues to help interpret actions and messages.
- I engage in questioning to obtain necessary information and examine various alternatives.
- You are aware of and manage your own emotions and understand the emotions of others which helps in navigating tense situations and in finding common ground.
- You use questions to gather details and consider different possibilities, preventing misunderstandings.
- I proactively seek information through questions to clarify and explore options.
- You pose questions to gain insights and avoid confusion while exploring different solutions.
- I listen intently when the other party is presenting information, interests, positions, offers or counteroffers.
Builds Consensus
- You find shared interests and solutions that benefit all parties involved.
- I identify tradeable interests that could facilitate reaching a consensus.
- I listen to all sides without bias and make fair decisions.
- You are proficient at reaching consensus in negotiations.
- I foster a cooperative atmosphere where each side works together to resolve conflicts.
- You manage the timing and degree of concessions.
Calm and Composed
- You stay calm and focus on the core issues to be discussed.
- I maintain a calm demeanor, even when discussions get heated.
- I stay composed and counter aggressive negotiation tactics by reframing unreasonable proposals or actions.
- You keep a composed and fair tone, even during challenging discussions.
- I stay positive and composed, promoting effective problem-solving and strong relationships.
- You maintain a calm and positive demeanor to enhance problem-solving and relationship building.
- I exhibit a composed and constructive attitude, even in challenging situations.
Self-Control
- You are able to control your emotional responses and correctly gauge the emotions of others.
- I control emotional responses to maintain a productive atmosphere.
- You maintain control over emotions to ensure a constructive environment.
- You manage emotions to reduce the impact of negativity.
- You keep emotions in check to avoid negative outbursts.
- I am aware of potential emotional triggers that could negatively impact the negotiations.
- You demonstrate emotional stability to facilitate productive problem-solving and relationship building.
- You take steps to control emotional responses to avoid making rash decisions.
Job Interview Questions
Understands the Positions
- How do you ensure a thorough understanding of key issues and priorities?
- How do you fully grasp both party's interests and options?
- Explain how you would thoroughly understand the interests and possibilities of both sides.
- Explain how you would become aware of the needs of the other party.
- Do you know the current business/market environment?
- What steps do you take to clearly understand the interests and choices of both parties?
- Give an example of how you become aware of what problems need to be solved.
- How do you stay well-informed about the issues and priorities?
Interpersonal Skills
- Describe how you establish good working relationships with others.
- How do you go about identifying and understanding the needs, concerns, and motivations of others?
- Elaborate on how you would maintain communication channels between parties in the negotiation.
- Can you share an instance where you demonstrated respect for someone else's views and opinions?
- Give an example of when you collaborated with others in solving problems to create solutions that satisfied both parties' interests.
- Tell me about a time when you maintained good interpersonal relationships with representatives from the other party.
- Can you describe a situation where you utilized your relationships with others to accomplish a goal?
- Are you an effective negotiator, fostering positive relationships and achieving good outcomes?
- How would you go about establishing a positive connection with the other party to foster a collaborative atmosphere, making it easier to reach mutually beneficial agreements?
Resolute
- How would you build trust and predictability by being resolute in your positions?
- Describe a time when you remained firm in your position under pressure and avoided making hasty concessions.
- Do you firmly believe the company is making the best offer?
- Describe how you would stay focused and avoids getting sidetracked by less important issues.
- How would you describe your skill in articulating your priorities and non-negotiables?
- Are you resolute on positions to provide consistency in the negotiation strategy?
- How would you research the BATNA (Best Alternative to a Negotiated Agreement) and are you prepared to walk away if core interests are not met?
- Describe how you show confidence in your position and effectively influence the other partys perception of your proposals.
Sets Boundaries
- How do you communicate negotiation boundaries and the reasons behind them?
- Are you able to say "no" when it is essential to maintaining quality and high standards? Give me an example of when you did this.
- How would you decline a bad idea to avoid making poor decisions?
- Did you ever say "no" when necessary to effectively execute business strategy and meet long-term objectives? Tell me about this.
- Have you reached a point where you were prepared to walk away if core interests are not met? What happened.
- How do you set and maintain firm negotiating limits and boundaries?
Flexibility
- Do you tailor approaches to more effectively address current demands? Give examples.
- Describe a time when you had to adapt to changing situations. When has this happened?
- Was there a time when you had to adapt to dynamic situations created by new information or unexpected challenges?
- Have you ever had to alter plans to respond to immediate challenges? Describe.
- Give examples from your recent negotiations of when you were flexible in responses.
- How would you adjust negotiation methods to suit the current situation?
- How do you knows where to stand firm and where to compromise?
Strategic
- Are you knowledgeable of which negotiation approaches were successful in the past?
- How would you adapt strategies to allow for flexibility in negotiations?
- How have past interactions with the other side had an impact (good or bad) on current or future negotiations?
- What strategies do you think will be useful for the current negotiations?
- Are you aware of what strategies have been successful in the past?
- Give an example of when you had to adapt strategies to better meet the needs of the moment.
- Describe your level of skill in the areas of tactics and strategies relevant for achieving successful negotiation outcomes.
- How would you use the motivations of each party to identify mutually advantageous solutions?
- Explain how you would distinguish and navigate between different negotiation strategies and styles.
Generates Solutions
- Explain how you would develop win-win solutions that benefit everyone involved.
- Give an example of when you were focused on joint problem-solving and honest communication.
- Describe how you would brainstorm for new ideas or solutions.
- How do you formulate value-driven solutions that are fair to all sides?
- How are you able to align interests in the pursuit of mutual gains?
- Describe how you try to aim for solutions that benefit both parties.
- Can you tell me about your dedication to collaborative problem-solving and transparent information sharing?
- How committed are you to working with both sides and openly sharing information? Explain.
- How would you create mutually advantageous outcomes for all stakeholders?
- Give examples of when you produced solutions that added value and satisfied all parties.
Data Driven
- Do you use focus groups to help determine how individuals will react with various negotiation scenarios?
- Explain how your arguments are based on objective standards or criteria, such as market value, legal standards, or expert opinions.
- How do you leverage information strategically to maximize its value?
- Explain how you would justify viewpoints. (Using strong and credible data?)
- Give an example of when you used solid data to substantiate positions effectively.
- How would you develop a unified understanding or strategy that acknowledges and addresses the different viewpoints and resolves conflicts?
- How would you assess the validity and relevance of each piece of information? (Considers the context and source?)
- How would you maximize the exchange of information concerning interests and positions?
- How do you collect information from various stakeholders, each with their own viewpoints, data, and interests?
- Describe how you would combine the valid points from each source to form a comprehensive and balanced perspective.
- Describe how you would validate claims with robust and convincing data.
- How would you support your positions? (With compelling evidence and data?)
Well Prepared
- In negotiations it is important to prepare by knowing what you want and where you are currently situated. How do you identify goals and objectives desired as well as the strengths and weaknesses you currently possess?
- Do you always have a "game plan" prior to entering into negotiations?
- How much time is spent preparing for negotiations compared to the amount of time in the actual negotiations?
- How thoroughly do you investigate the relevant issues prior to negotiation? Describe.
- How do you conduct necessary preparations before engaging in negotiations?
- What steps would you take to prepare a timeline for any pre-negotiation activities/preparations?
- Explain how you would prepare for negotiations. (Was it thoroughly by analyzing and understanding each party's interests, alternatives, and options?)
- Have you had to maximize information gathering efforts prior to negotiations? Describe.
- How would you research the needs of the other party to identify strengths and weaknesses of positions?
- How do you prepare a plan for steps needed to be taken before negotiations as well as the steps to be taken during negotiations?
Initial Moments
- How do you foster a robust, collaborative setting; set clear expectations; and introduce an agenda that matches priorities?
- Explain how you would establish a strong, cooperative atmosphere; define expectations; and present a well-structured agenda aligned with key priorities?
- Describe how you would create a decisive, team-oriented environment; clarify goals; and outline a strategic agenda.
- How well do you set the tone and agenda, create rapport, and build momentum at the start of negotiations? Give examples.
- How do you create a constructive atmosphere, building a positive relationship for cooperative negotiations?
- How do you establish a protocol/structure at the beginning of the negotiations for the development of issues?
- Give an example of when you made initial offers based on high aspirations while also conveying a robust BATNA (Best Alternative to a Negotiated Settlement)?
Skilled and Effective
- Describe how you would handle tough issues skillfully to foster positive solutions.
- Are you a proficient conflict resolver who effectively navigates workplace disputes to maintain a harmonious and productive environment? Elaborate.
- How would you resolve difficult negotiations whether it is a contract, sub contract, legal or any other difficult negotiation fairly and reasonably?
- Are you able to manage and resolve conflicts constructively?
- Are you able to effectively manage conflicts?
- Explain how you would handle disputes with tact and diplomacy, ensuring that personal opinions do not interfere with professional responsibilities.
- How do you keep the negotiations constructive and focused on problem-solving rather than conflict?
- How do you ensure that the final agreement aligns with core interests?
- Do you actively listen to conversations to be able to recall important details later? Give examples.
Articulate
- Are you able to express yourself in a clear, convincing, and logical manner in negotiations? Give examples.
- Are you an articulate and persuasive communicator?
- Do you change communication styles to meet the listener's needs? Any examples you can provide?
- Are you able to clearly express thoughts and concerns? Describe.
- Do you maintain positive and rational communication even under pressure? Examples from past negotiations?
- Give examples of when you clearly articulated points and actively listened to the others to ensure that both sides understood each other's needs and concerns.
- Are you able to speaks eloquently and coherently about a wide range of subjects? Explain.
- Do you communicate calmly and reasonably, even in high-stress situations? Give examples.
- Do you feel you are skilled in making clear and compelling arguments for your position? Elaborate.
- How do you establish clear communications to avoid misunderstandings?
Persuasive
- How would you make a persuasive and well-founded first offer?
- How do you clearly state your positions during negotiations?
- Do you feel you are able to influence others to accept certain positions? Why?
- Are you confident that you could deliver a strong and ambitious first proposal, backed by solid justification? Do you have prior experience with this?
- Are you successful in making a compelling and influencial first offer?
- Can you clearly explain the issues and interests at the start of negotiations? Examples.
- Do you confidently put forward an ambitious and well-justified initial proposal?
- Do you influence others through rational argument and persuasion?
- Explain how you would present a bold and well-supported initial offer with confidence?
- How do you persuade the other party of the benefits of our proposals?
Perceptive
- Give examples of when you used questions to gather details and consider different possibilities, preventing misunderstandings.
- How intently do you listen when the other party is presenting information, interests, positions, offers or counteroffers?
- Do you proactively seek information through questions to clarify and explore options?
- Do you engage in questioning to obtain necessary information and examine various alternatives? Give examples from recent negotiations.
- Give examples of when you posed questions to gain insights and avoid confusion while exploring different solutions.
- Can you identify verbal and nonverbal cues to help interpret actions and messages? Explain.
- How do you begin to understand the expectations of other parties in the negotiation? What steps do you take to get this knowledge?
- Emotional intelligence helps in navigating tense situations and in finding common ground. Are you aware of and manage your own emotions and understand the emotions of others?
Builds Consensus
- How proficient are you at reaching consensus in negotiations? Why do you say that?
- Give an example of when you listened to all sides without bias to make fair decisions.
- How do you foster a cooperative atmosphere where each side works together to resolve conflicts?
- In past negotiations have you ever identified tradeable interests that could facilitate reaching a consensus? Explain.
- Explain how you would finds shared interests and solutions that benefit all parties involved.
- How do you manage the timing and degree of concessions?
Calm and Composed
- Problem-solving and building strong relationships are facilitated by staying calm. How do you stay positive and composed?
- Do you exhibit a composed and constructive attitude, even in challenging situations? Past examples?
- Are you able to maintain a calm and positive demeanor in negotiations to enhance problem-solving and relationship building?
- Can you maintain a calm demeanor, even when discussions get heated? Has this happened?
- Do you keep a composed and fair tone, even during challenging discussions?
- When discussions get heated, how do you stay calm and focus on the core issues to be discussed?
- In difficult negotiations, how do you stay composed and counter aggressive negotiation tactics? (By reframing unreasonable proposals or actions?)
Self-Control
- Emotional intelligence is critical in negotiations with other people. How are you able to control your emotional responses and correctly gauge the emotions of others?
- Can you control your emotional responses to maintain a productive atmosphere? Explain.
- Can you keep emotions in check to avoid negative outbursts?
- Are you able to maintain control over your emotions to ensure a constructive environment?
- Are you aware of potential emotional triggers that you have which could negatively impact the negotiations?
- How do you manage emotions to reduce the impact of negativity?
- Maintaining emotional stability helps foster effective problem-solving and strong relationships. How do you show emotional stability in your interactions?
- What steps do you take to control emotional responses to avoid making rash decisions?