When you find yourself in a conflict, use these communication tools to negotiate possible solutions:
-face the other person
-establish eye contact
-check your tone of voice (avoid being loud, whiny, or talking too fast)
-check your facial expression (avoid pursed lips and frowns)
-check your body posture (straight but not rigid)
-use active listening skills
-ask for what you want
-state the reason why you want it
-thank the other person if she/he agrees to the request
-suggest a compromise if he/she does not agree. If a compromise is agreed upon,
say ‘thank you’
-ask the other person for a solution if you don’t agree with the compromise. If
you agree with their solution, say ‘thank you’
-suggest a different idea and keep on negotiating if you don’t like the suggested
solutions. If you need more time to think about a solution, ask for it. Also ask
the other person when you can talk to him/her again.
back to beginning of Shared Accommodation workshop