This series of articles has covered a variety of steps to enhance the possibility of a successful negotiation or mediation. Just following anyone step will improve the prospects, however, a deliberate effort to incorporate all the steps that are applicable will result in a win-win approach for both parties. You may even be able to get the other side to agree to this process. This is the baseline premise of Getting to Yes by Ury and Fisher.

As a mediator, I make an effort before the opening and during the mediations to get both parties to agree to follow these steps. By making this effort we enhance the likelihood of a settlement and even a win-win resolution. As it has been said, nothing ventured – not gained. You will gain much by having a process you follow when negotiating any dispute.