| Preparation
Before Meeting |
Behavior During
Meeting
|
Thinking/Tactics
During Meeting |
| Identify the
problem |
Be nice – Be
polite |
Focus on the
issues, not the person |
| Think about
what you really want |
Use "I"
statements instead of "You" statements |
Be
open-minded – be willing to explore new ideas |
| Know your
Best Case Scenario |
Control your
tone of voice and volume |
Avoid
ultimatums |
| Know your
Worst Case Scenario |
Don’t be
insulting or insulted |
Stick to the
facts – not assumptions |
| Dress
appropriately |
Agree to
listen |
Be willing to
find new solutions |
| Let your
mediator or attorney know if you have
special needs (diet, translator, wheelchair access, etc.) |
No name
calling |
Be willing to
move from your entrenched position |
|
Control your
emotions |
Focus on long-term
best interests
(solutions) |
|
Treat others
the way they want to be treated
(Platinum Rule) |
Resist the
temptation to go for short-term
satisfaction. Avoid stubbornness, retaliation, "I told you so," etc. |
|
Do not attack
or threaten others |
Consider
offering an apology |
