There are three items to consider when looking for negotiation training: purpose, admissions requirements, and faculty. Negotiation training can be part of a business degree or diploma or offered as a specialized, post-graduate certificate. Most negotiation training programs are affiliated with local business schools, but they are also offered by law enforcement schools, as well as other specialized programs. A negotiation is the process of resolving a conflict between two parties through discussions, bargaining, and mediation.
There are two types of negotiation training programs: business negotiator and diplomatic or crisis negotiation training. The business negotiation programs are available through degree programs in commerce or business. These types of programs focus on game strategy, statistics, and how to get the best deal though negotiations.
Crisis negotiation training is focused on understanding human behavior under pressure, managing the anxiety level, and reducing the level of potential harm. This type of training is available through law enforcement academies, crisis management degrees, and advanced medical training. Additional certification is also available for psychologists and counselors.
Although both types of training are available through either a university or community college, the expectations and career options are quite different. A business negotiator is willing to deal with the risk of business loss or gain through negotiation. The crisis negotiator is facing a risk of harm to people, property, and a broader community. Both are expected to obtain a significant level of detailed knowledge surrounding human psychology and behavior. Be sure to think about what type of career you are looking for when selecting between these two options.
To qualify for admission, you must meet the admissions requirements for either business, law, or health sciences training programs. Certificate and post-graduate programs typically require an undergraduate degree or diploma to qualify for admissions. The most prestigious programs also require a personal interview, physiological profile, and an aptitude test.
Most negotiation training and related programs provide the biographies of their faculty or instructors on their websites. The information listed typically includes the academic credentials, work experience, special training, and any awards they have received. Review the information with care and learn more about the different areas of specialization.
There are a wide range of private schools, online courses, videos, books, and other resources that provide information on negotiation training. It is important to carefully review the academic credentials of these tools before investing money and time. This field is unregulated, so it is important to do your research before investing money in courses or tools that may not be accurate or relevant.