What Constitutes an Apology?

| | Conflict Resolution

Psychologists Bruce Darby and Barry Schlenker at the University of Florida have defined apologies as “admissions of blameworthiness and regret for an undesirable event.” In negotiation, such … Read What Constitutes an Apology?

What Can an Apology Do?

| | Conflict Resolution

Following a violation, negotiators become less cooperative, less trusting, more upset, and more likely to retaliate against the perceived perpetrator. An apology can reverse the damage. … Read What Can an Apology Do?

When an Apology is Most Effective

| | Conflict Resolution

Some researchers have found that the most effective type of apology depends on the nature of the mistake made.

In a study by Peter Kim of the University … Read When an Apology is Most Effective

A Peacekeeper Abandons Negotiations in Syria

| | International Negotiation

On August 2, Kofi Annan announced he was resigning as the special peace envoy of the United Nations and the Arab League. reports Rick Gladstone in the … Read A Peacekeeper Abandons Negotiations in Syria

Resolving Conflicts on the High Seas

| | Conflict Resolution

In negotiation over a limited pool of resources, conflicts often spring up over what constitutes a fair agreement. If two business partners are going their separate ways, … Read Resolving Conflicts on the High Seas

Do You Need a Broker?

| | Conflict Resolution

According to conventional wisdom, you should always hire a real estate agent when you’re trying to buy a house. The broker’s market expertise will help you decide … Read Do You Need a Broker?

Is the Devil in the Details?

| | Business Negotiations

You’re close to a deal, but concerns linger. Some of the contract seems less than precise. What in the world does “reasonable best efforts” mean, for example, … Read Is the Devil in the Details?

Turn Your Adversary Into Your Advocate: How to Ask for Advice

| | Business Negotiations

Advice seeking is a versatile negotiation tool, as long as you project the right image and tone. Here are three guidelines: … Read This Post

Negotiating for Continuous Improvement: Offer Ongoing Negotiation Coaching

| | Negotiation Skills

How can organizations capitalize on negotiation experience? Through reflective practice: the process of considering the results of each negotiation in light of initial expectations and then discussing … Read This Post

Negotiation Skills: Your Good Mood May Work Against You

| | Negotiation Skills

Just before a meeting with her boss, Cindy peeks into his secretary’s office and whispers, “How’s his mood today?” When the secretary gives a thumbs-up, Cindy decides … Read This Post

Managing Conflict Outside of the Courts

| | Dispute Resolution

In May, Alex Scally, one half of the Baltimore musical duo Beach House, was surprised to hear from fans in Britain claiming that a new song by … Read Managing Conflict Outside of the Courts

Roger Fisher Papers Open at Harvard Law School Library

| | Negotiation Skills

Roger Fisher, one of the cofounders of the Program on Negotiation at Harvard Law School and Samuel Williston Professor of Law, Emeritus, was honored on the 8th … Read This Post