The Importance of Listening and Responding in Effective NegotiationSheryl OvercashArgosy UniversityIntroductionThroughout human history, people have gathered at traditional or local markets to exchange goods. The amount paid for the goods depended on the negotiation process (Adler, 1997). By definition, negotiation refers to a discussion between individuals, each trying to present their best idea to reach a conclusion beneficial to everyone (Adler, 1997). As commonly and daily observed, negotiation is an activity that people engage in, both in the workplace and at home. It is not only natural, but it is also considered a science and an art (Adler, 1997). The very first form of negotiation is recorded in the Bible, in the book of Genesis 20:18, where Abraham attempted to negotiate with the three angels regarding the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah (Adler, 1997). a negotiation must ensure that in the end, whatever the outcome or solution, it benefits all parties involved and everyone comes out a winner. Effective negotiation goes hand in hand with listening and responding. It is also entirely possible to negotiate anything as long as you are patient and confident enough. DiscussionAs I mentioned earlier, it is important to listen and respond accordingly during a negotiation. Not all individuals have negotiation skills and must learn to improve their listening and speaking skills in various negotiation situations. I will consider a situation in which I participated and where a negotiation took place. When I was about 7 years old, I liked to sleep late at night even though I knew I would be up quite late... in the middle of a newspaper...... all my interests. In the end, I ended up losing the case. The other alternative strategy that could have been used is to be flexible in the negotiations. This means that either party is willing to give up things that do not really matter to them (Adler, 1997). Conclusion The goal of a negotiation is to reach an agreement that tends to achieve the objectives of the parties involved. Effective negotiation is a skill that can be learned. It is therefore important to keep in mind that everything is negotiable and that individuals may not negotiate with others if they are not treated as if the need to deal with them again would arise. References: Adler, MJ (1997). How to speak, how to listen. New York: Simon and Schuster. Lewicki, R. (2006). Essential elements of negotiation [VitalSource library version]. Retrieved from http://digitalbookshelf.argosy.edu/books/007-7376501/id/ch10tab01