Topic > Importance of Impasse in Negotiation - 713

Ask the parties to explain their point of view as to why they appear to be at an impasse. Sometimes, parties need to consciously perceive and focus on their deadlock.4. Ask the parties: "What would you like to do next?" and take a break while waiting. Or you can say "frankly, it seems like we're really stuck on this problem. What do you think we should do?" These questions help the Parties to actively share the burden of the impasse.5. Ask each party to describe their fears (but do not appear condescending or make them defensive).6. Try to do a global summary of both sides' points and what they've said so far, "framing" the case so the parties can see the part they're stuck on in the overall context. At times, the issue of impasse will seem less important.7. Reiterate all the areas they have agreed on so far, praise them for their work and achievements, and confirm that they have come a long way. Then, ask something like, “do you want to let all this push you away?”8. Ask the parties to focus on the ideal future; for example, ask each person, “where would you like to be [regarding the stalled issue] in a year?” Follow the answers with questions about how they might get them