A Few Points of Clarification

Negotiating Teamwork —  What I’m advocating: salon-type situations where ideas are exchanged, theories can be tested in a safe setting and individuals are able to learn from the experiences of others.  What I’m not advocating: negotiating in groups.  Negotiating in groups is extremely difficult and requires a level expertise that, quite frankly, none of us have.  So, don’t do it if you don’t have to.… Read More

the power of many

Man, ask just about anyone how 2009’s been treating them and you’ll get a smattering of groans, grunts and a whole lotta “What the heck is up with the economy?”

And if the job market looks frightening now, the freelance market is gonna start making it look like a 76-trombone parade (sorry, this shouldn’t be news).

Unfortunately, when things get rough our natural tendency is … Read More

omg, guys

I am totally crushing out over the President.  Seriously.  He is my new negotiator crush.  Watch out William Ury.

Other people seem pretty jazzed about him too.  Like his political opponents:

“First of all, when you have a meeting like this, it humanizes and personalizes opponents, where you recognize them as human beings,” [Representative Trent] Franks said. “I think that does a lot … Read More

Not dead!

Just busy.

A little of this, a little of that, and a whole lot of WTF.

So, you know, normal.

In addition to being torn in a couple different directions, I’m a bit torn on what to address next.  There are a number of topics I’m interested in and I’ve sketched out a few ideas, but I’m not really passionate one way or another.  (Though … Read More

Way to model good negotiation behavior, Mr. President

Good negotiators let the other side know they can listen; they let the other side express their opinions and share ideas; and they understand that in order for anything to get done, they need the other side to participate.

Rock on, Mr. President; rock on.… Read More

Quick & Easy

Blah, blah, blah, interests, blah, blah.

Am I right?

Ok, fair enough.  You need proof.  I get that.

You just have to do something for me in your next 3 negotiation conversations (talking with the spouse about making dinner? counts!  navigating a tricky situation with a co-worker?  counts!  just about any conversation you have while traveling?  counts!).

Ask questions.

BEFORE you make a decision about … Read More

Tina Fey has nothing to do with this post

I just wanted an excuse to post her picture on the blog.… Read More

creeping toward insantiy

In the comments, Colleen asked that I address “mission creep” and the joys that emit there forth.  I’ve heard it called “mission creep,” “scope creep”* and “the single easiest way to lose your mind.”  Whatever business speak phrase you prefer, it is the phenomenon of thinking you know exactly what a project will be and how much time it will take, only to watch it … Read More