Logrolling Negotiation
What is Logrolling in Negotiation?
Logrolling in negotiation refers to the "practice of trading across issues" to secure an agreement. It involves each side making concessions, also known as "trading off" an issue. The principle is to offer the other party something they value more in exchange for something you desire more.
Logrolling can be used to tackle multiple issues and can be instrumental in overcoming partial roadblocks. Negotiations are often complex, presenting numerous factors that the opposing sides value differently. Nonetheless, differing perspectives can provide an opportunity to create value.
When preparing for negotiations, experienced negotiators prioritise the issues and make a concerted effort to understand their opponent's preferences. Negotiators take turns conceding less valuable points in exchange for those they value more. This is logrolling.
Although easier said than done, logrolling can effectively resolve deadlocks, while ensuring that all participants feel heard and respected. All parties compromise, yet they still leave with some of their top priorities.
Logrolling in Negotiation Example
A local council and a community group engaged in a negotiation where logrolling played a key role. The council aimed to renovate a local library and construct a new sports centre, while the community group sought to establish a community garden and preserve a local park. By trading concessions, the council agreed to adopt environmental measures in the sports centre and fund the garden in exchange for the group's support of the library and sports centre projects. This compromise allowed both parties to achieve their main objectives, demonstrating effective use of logrolling to overcome initial opposition and ensure mutual gains.
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