In the complex landscape of project management, a project leader's ability to negotiate effectively is paramount to success. From securing resources and managing stakeholder expectations to resolving conflicts and adapting to change, negotiation is not just a skill—it's the driving force behind project alignment and a harmonious working environment. The "Negotiation Skills for Project Leaders: The Art of Influence and Collaboration Training Course" is meticulously designed to equip project professionals with the psychological insights and practical techniques needed to navigate challenging conversations and build lasting, collaborative relationships.

Over this 10-day training, you will move beyond traditional negotiation tactics and learn to foster an environment of mutual respect and shared success. This course will cover everything from strategic planning and effective communication to handling difficult personalities and reaching win-win agreements. By mastering these skills, you will not only enhance your personal leadership capabilities but also empower your teams, mitigate risks, and ensure that your projects are built on a foundation of clear understanding and shared commitment.

Duration: 10 days

Target Audience:

• Project Managers
• Program Managers
• Team Leads
• Scrum Masters
• Business Analysts
• Project Coordinators
• Senior Project Team Members
• PMO Professionals
• Functional Managers
• Anyone responsible for project delivery

Objectives:

• Understand the fundamentals of negotiation
• Develop a strategic negotiation plan
• Master effective communication techniques
• Learn to build and maintain rapport
• Manage and resolve conflict constructively
• Handle difficult and aggressive personalities
• Navigate complex team and stakeholder negotiations
• Achieve win-win outcomes for all parties
• Develop a personal negotiation style
• Practice and refine your skills in real-world scenarios

Course Modules:

Module 1: Foundations of Negotiation

• The importance of negotiation in project management
• The difference between positional and interest-based negotiation
• The role of a leader as a negotiator
• The importance of preparation
• Principles of collaborative negotiation

Module 2: The Negotiation Process

• The five phases of negotiation
• The importance of a clear objective
• Using a negotiation matrix for complex scenarios
• The role of a facilitator
• The benefits of a structured approach

Module 3: Strategic Planning

• The importance of understanding your BATNA (Best Alternative To a Negotiated Agreement)
• Techniques for preparing a negotiation plan
• The role of a contingency plan
• The importance of a clear and concise proposal
• The benefits of a well-researched position

Module 4: Communication and Active Listening

• The importance of verbal and non-verbal communication
• The role of active listening
• Techniques for building rapport
• The importance of asking open-ended questions
• The benefits of a clear and empathetic communication style

Module 5: Understanding Your Counterpart

• The importance of understanding different communication styles
• The role of emotional intelligence
• Techniques for identifying a counterpart's needs
• The importance of a clear perspective
• The benefits of a shared understanding

Module 6: Managing Conflict

• The difference between conflict and negotiation
• Techniques for de-escalating a tense situation
• The role of a mediator
• The importance of a calm and collected demeanor
• The benefits of a constructive approach

Module 7: Handling Difficult Personalities

• The importance of identifying a difficult personality
• Techniques for dealing with a bully
• The role of a strong, assertive voice
• The importance of maintaining your composure
• The benefits of a firm but fair approach

Module 8: Team and Stakeholder Negotiations

• The importance of internal negotiations
• Techniques for building consensus within a team
• The role of a stakeholder in a project
• The importance of managing expectations
• The benefits of a unified approach

Module 9: Reaching Agreements

• The importance of a clear and concise agreement
• Techniques for summarizing a negotiation
• The role of a formal sign-off
• The importance of a follow-up plan
• The benefits of a written agreement

Module 10: Ethical Negotiations

• The importance of a moral compass
• The role of honesty and transparency
• Techniques for avoiding a win-lose outcome
• The importance of a long-term relationship
• The benefits of a reputation for integrity

Module 11: Real-World Scenarios

• Negotiating for project resources
• Handling a scope change request
• The importance of a real-world simulation
• The role of a mentor in your development
• The benefits of a safe and supportive environment

Module 12: Influence and Persuasion

• The importance of persuasion
• Techniques for building credibility
• The role of a logical argument
• The importance of a strong case
• The benefits of a compelling story

Module 13: Negotiations Across Cultures

• The importance of cultural awareness
• Techniques for a cross-cultural negotiation
• The role of a cultural ambassador
• The importance of a clear communication style
• The benefits of a global perspective

Module 14: Continuous Improvement

• The importance of a negotiation journal
• Techniques for a post-negotiation review
• The role of a lessons learned session
• The importance of a feedback loop
• The benefits of a continuous learning mindset

Module 15: Tools and Technology

• An overview of negotiation tools
• Using a negotiation app for a complex scenario
• The benefits of a virtual negotiation
• The importance of choosing the right tools
• The role of a data analyst

Module 16: The Future of Negotiation

• The impact of AI on negotiation
• The importance of emotional intelligence
• The role of a leader in a changing world
• The benefits of a futuristic mindset
• The importance of preparing for what's next

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 10 working days before commencement of the training.