M - Communication and Negotiation

Question 1

Name a time you have had an effective negotiation and the steps you took?

Answer 1

• Identify Goals
• Consider all parties
• Build confidence
• Set clear timelines
• Communicate effectively
• Don’t Rush

Question 2

What is it important to do following anything important that has been verbally communicated and why?

Answer 2

Get it in writing. Email or letter for auditing purposes.

Question 3

A client has asked you to conduct a negotiation with a contractor over some variations. How would you carry out the negotiation?

Answer 3

• Have key facts documented
• Prepare any other necessary info
• Set agenda
• Give chances to speak
• Present case etc, document findings

Question 4

What makes a successful negotiation?

Answer 4

A fair justified outcome

Question 5

What are some advantages and disadvantages of written communication?

Answer 5

Adv
- Permanent record- auditing
- Easy to circulate
Disadv
- Can be shared
- May not get prompt feedback
- Wrong interpretation

Question 6

Take me through a final account meeting you have attended with a contract, how did you prepare and then reach an agreement?

Answer 6

Final account proposal reviewed from contractor, our review and proposals and comments, agreed a way forward following meeting and actions required.

Question 7

What is the difference between effective and efficient communication?

Answer 7

Effective:
- Ensures message is understood
- Message clearly expresses intended objective
- Builds trust but may not be brief
Efficient:
- Concise and to the point
- Gets message across swiftly
- Works best where there is a pre-established mutual understanding but can leave questions unanswered