Explain Compromise in a Negotiation

Negotiation is a way to settle disputes in any industry. The tool of negotiation is used by families, businesspeople and attorneys in order to reach a solution, settlement or end a long standoff between factions. Compromise is key to these successful negotiations.

Features

Compromise must include benefits for both parties involved. At the same time, both parties must also sacrifice to some degree, whether in the form of money, rights or favors.

Function

Compromise in negotiation is used to break through a stalemate in negotiation and is often brought on by the side that is most eager to reach a deal.

Requirements for Compromise in Negotiation

To negotiate, you must have two or more parties dependent on one another. The parties must be willing to negotiate and have something to leverage that appeals to the other side, and they must also have the authority to make a decision, deadline and final agreement.

Unequal Compromise

In some compromises, one party benefits more than the other. In these instances one side has more to lose than the other but still has something that his adversary wants. The disadvantaged side compromises in order to make the losses less significant.

Considerations

Not every issue can be compromised upon or even negotiated. These include moral issues and negotiations over food, shelter, water, protection, belonging, identity and independence, according to political theorist Brad Spangler.

References

• Beyondintractability.org: Compromise
• Univeristy of California: Creative Negotiation
• Air University: Compromise