5.7.3 - Being a Good Negotiator

Answer the following statements either True or False.

1. Gather information and facts in advance of meeting; be clear about child-related issues that you want to discuss.
   
   True
   False
2. Meet in a neutral place where you can talk without interruption.
   
   True
   False
3. Provide a lengthy detailed list of rules for communication; structure should take priority over open communication.
   
   True
   False
4. Be clear about what you want to negotiate, seek point of view of other parent, stay focused on topic, and avoid discussing past faults and problems. Use “I” statements.
   
   True
   False
5. Listen carefully to the other parent, ask for clarification and try to understand the other’s perspective. Make it clear that you’ve heard and understand.
   
   True
   False
6. Discuss creative solutions; suggest—but do not demand—your own solutions.
   
   True
   False
7. Seek agreement on a solution(s) and make an action plan together. Agree to disagree, if necessary, and decide how to deal with that.
   
   True
   False
8. Leave next meeting time open for negotiation depending upon ‘how things are going’.
   
   True
   False
9. At the end of the meeting offer critical comments about what happened. This is an effort to have the other parent learn for next time.
   
   True
   False

When you are done, you can check your answers.
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