Model

United Nations WS13/14

Negotiation Tips & Tricks

Negotiating at a Model UN Simulation Phase 1: Preparing and Planning Phase 2: In Session Phase 3: Being in Caucus Phase 4: After the Negotiation

Phase 1: Preparing and Planning: Be informed on the topics to be discussed Know landmark documents on the topic Know your interests Know your priorities Know the limits of what is acceptable to you Develop options/ strategies for the negotiation

Phase 2: In Session Being in your Committee Discretely fraternize with others in the room, show them that you are a good and easy going person who wants to work for the committee Approach other delegates, introduce yourself and get first information: Hello, I am representing Japan. Nice to meet you. I was wondering. Approach partner countries with Hello, I am representing Sweden. I was looking for you Use formal language

Agenda setting speech Try to be on the speakers list early on In your speech, firmly state your position, bring up major terms and end on a positive note or dramatize Show your dedication to a cooperative approach Listen to the other speeches, identify sources of support and opposition Make extensive use of the tool of sending around notes to other delegates - make appointments for consultation

Model United Nations WS13/14

Negotiation Tips & Tricks

On Speeches: speak when necessary and when you have something valuable to add delivering speeches is not valuable in itself Show the will for cooperation Appeal to the committee to be cooperative Sell positive results achieved in negotiations; thank other delegations for their cooperation Invite other delegations to caucus with you, state where End on a positive note or dramatize

Interacting with other delegates: Introduce yourself, handshakes do a good job Be polite and friendly, no matter the situation Appear thoughtful and positive smile a lot Radiate confidence at all times Never lose control: do not run across the room etc. You might take delegates aside to talk about important matters

Create a cooperative environment Caucus often Do not get stuck with just one person forever move around and engage in a dialogue Listen to people and be compassionate about their concerns Be the person that brings people together If appropriate: be a leader, build a coalition - get people to work together If appropriate: be a mediator, explore conflicts and develop alternatives

Phase 3: Being in Caucus General: Show proper respect for other delegates Be confident, calm, thoughtful, and positive Do not brag, do not patronize (do not tell others how much you know, let them find out) Thank other delegates for cooperation, good ideas etc.

Model United Nations WS13/14

Negotiation Tips & Tricks

If you want to accomplish your objectives, you must take the initiative Sit at the head of the table / take a central position Handle introductions Have a plan what you want to achieve The fewer the participants the earlier the agreement but keep in mind that you are striving for a majority in your committee

Make promises with caution Present positions soundly and concisely Be flexible without jeopardizing positions Be willing to compromise (or at least appear to be) Demand more as you expect to receive Make an early minor compromise which might pave the way for winning a major point later Appeal to the self-interest of others (Dont you support; also: Doesnt Japan) possibly by presenting facts

When answering to positions of other delegates, use phrases like I understand, I see (take their position seriously) Thats a serious issue I think we need to address That is an interesting point you raise Lets make sure we deal with that It will be a pleasure to discuss this important issue during Sweden is pleased / does agree / appreciates / is convinced / is dedicated

Communicating in a caucus: Break the tension: use humor Silence is golden: it is the best reply to a totally unacceptable offer Defer / delay / deflect discussions about sensitive points Be right the first time. If you are not sure, delay the answer Do not be in a hurry and do not rush the other side When the mission is accomplished, leave

Model United Nations WS13/14

Negotiation Tips & Tricks

Writing: Make sure you work with the right people natural allies may in fact not be the best choices for drafting resolutions with Be the person who has a notebook (and USB-stick) If there is disagreement, distinguish between interests and positions: look for alternatives If you do not reach an agreement with the delegates you negotiate with, what would be your BATNA (Best Alternative To Negotiated Agreement)?

What if I cannot answer questions of delegates? I have to consult with my home government. I have to consult with my colleague Use phrases like: Sweden is supporting a holistic approach to development; The US still believes the UN is at its core an organization of of sovereign states, etc. Improvise