We find that the most skilled among them rely on five highly effective strategies
(1) understand the big picture,
(2) uncover hidden agendas and collaborate with the other side,
(3) get genuine buy-in,
(4) build relationships that are based on trust rather than fear,
and (5) pay attention to process as well as desired outcomes.
avoid
assuming you have all the facts: “look, it’s obvious that.…”
assuming the other side is biased — but you’re not
assuming the other side’s motivations and intentions are obvious — and probably nefarious