Ana Fernández Navas

17206911
Brona Russel
Introduction to Negotiations
9th February 2018

First Journal Entry

Most people, irrespective of their occupations, deal with negotiations at some point in their lives. This is
the main reason that took me to choose this subject. I, personally, view this module as an opportunity not
only to grow as a businesswoman but to get to learn what type of person am I when it comes to problem-
solving or creativity. Therefore, I hope to learn how to control shyness and even use it as an advantage, if it
is possible. Moreover, discover how to negotiate towards a win for both parties.

I am not sure about the different styles of negotiation, but I believe I best identify myself with
“collaborating”. The reasons that take me to conclude this is that I am really motivated when it comes to
solving problems as it is a challenge that awakens me to fight for what I trust is the right outcome. Not only
am I driven to solve problems, but also to seek solutions to both sides´ benefit. One thing I am scared about
is that I tend to think about the other person’s feelings, generally in any situation, and I do not know whether
is it a good thing or not when negotiating.

Regarding the case of my most memorable experience negotiating, I believe it's my Indian volunteer
program based on a reception plus education of orphan minors with scarce resources in Nazareth. I basically
lived with the children and, even though, it is hard to explain they became part of my life. So, as usual, there
are cultural shocks as their culture and the European defer hugely when talking about gender equality and
children care. My negotiation started because of this subject as there was a Brother in charge of the children
that basically used physical abuse to punish them for unreasonable actions (such as singing happy birthday to
a volunteer). Moreover, this issue did not end as the Brother used some boys as whistleblowers which
created rivalries and tension in the orphanage family.

So, I had the problem to solve and the means. What I first did was organise a meeting with TMSSS,
where the father in charge of the projects was located, to express my concerns and place some possible
conditions to solve the issue. During the meeting, I explained him my concerns and used specific examples
such as the use of sticks to punish the boys. After this, I suggested him some measures such as monitoring
the Brother and talking to him. Moreover, I pose a clause which was that if at the end of the month things did
not change another person should substitute him in his place. It was difficult talking to someone that
accepted beating as a form of punishment, but transmitting my emotions and seeking to accomplish my goal,
getting the boys a safe and unified “family”. At the end, I personally tracked the improvement and even
though I believe in second chances, the Brother´s attitude never changed, therefore they substitute him with
the one before him who was an excellent parental figure for them.