There are many styles of negotiating and more than one approach may be used in any set of negotiations. The different styles of bargaining may commonly be referred to as traditional, positional, distributive or adversarial bargaining. Alternatively you may refer to interest-based, principled, problem-solving or integrative bargaining. Models are emerging that combine these styles. Each style has its advantages and there are many variations in practice.
Generally, “traditional” bargaining refers to a situation where each side places their demands and proposals on the table and the other side responds with counter-proposals. The process is characterised by a struggle of give and take.
“Principled” or “interest-based” bargaining, on the other hand, aims to solve the problems raised at the bargaining table as the negotiators focus on the interests underlying the issues and seek to satisfy all parties’ interests.Interests include the needs, desires, concerns and fears important to each side.They are the underlying reasons for a position.Teasing out an interest involves exploring “why?” – why do they want this/why don’t they want this?
Some important elements of bargaining include
On the right side of the screen the panel provides information and resources to assist you to explore the styles of negotiating with your bargaining team, including a training template on productive bargaining.