A Handful of Tips 90 – 

                          Reaching Agreements

The five best tips to reach an agreement between conflicting groups

When you cannot make progress adjourn.

1. Plan your strategy

Write down what you want to achieve and your final position.

2. Look at things from the other side’s point of view

Write down what you think is their bottom line.

Seek information by questioning to clarify issues.

Look for any unspoken problems, such as people and personalities.

3. Look for options where there are mutual gains

Focus on mutual interests and benefits, not on non-negotiable positions.

4. To gain something be prepared to give something

Consider the economics of the various solutions.

5. Be polite and ethical

Never lose your temper under any circumstances.

Express appreciation for the other side’s time and efforts.

-Geoffrey

“If you are tolerant in one moment of anger, 

it will save you many days of regret.” 

SOURCE: “Secrets for Success. This book could change your life”. First published by Moss Associates Ltd New Zealand and later by Cengage Learning Asia. Also available as an e-book at Amazon.com.