Leadership in negotiations: Predictability & high-mindedness

Followers highly value predictability as a trait in a leader

While many enjoy the excitement of drama, ultimately, we all crave predictability. However, chaos is sometimes required for people to realize the importance of order & predictability. 

In times of crisis, predictable leadership is crucial for achieving a successful result. It is regarded as the most valued trait in a leader by their followers.

I consistently view Dwight Eisenhower as an excellent example of a logical, highly intelligent, classic leadership model of high-mindedness. Additionally, he was a military strategist, which is essential today.

Dwight Eisenhower, previous President of the United States & military Strategist developed this method for prioritization. It was then popularized by Stephen Covey in his book "The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People".

Logical Reasoning & Decision-making Frameworks in Leadership

The decline of the "rational thinking model" in leadership and decision-making has become a widespread issue globally. Eisenhower exemplified critical thinking. Actions taken without thoughtful consideration lead to disorder & chaos. It's important to remember 98% of human thoughts are useless, repetitive, and circular. Acting on any of these thoughts poses a latent threat to modern civilization. Many individuals struggle to distinguish between reality and fantasy. The pressing danger arises when people act on their thoughts without discernment and evaluating the consequences. Understanding this distinction in leadership and management is crucial.

Sometimes a collapse of a system is required to create a higher order. As it is said, when events proceed to their extremes; their opposites emerge. 

Slow & steady always gets to the finish line

During a crisis, a steady and gradual approach consistently reaches the goal. The challenge for a leader is to arrive alongside other leaders. This is where intelligence, strategic foresight, and peripheral awareness become essential for the leader.

In a negotiation, it is crucial to grasp what is truly bothering your counterpart. This situation has historical roots dating back to 1812. While Canada might consider using economic sanctions as a form of retaliation, there are more effective alternatives available.

In conflict resolution and negotiations, it's crucial to comprehend what is truly happening with your counterpart before taking any action. Violence leads to more violence, and an attack prompts a retaliatory attack.

Our brain structure and mindset influence whether we are equipped to negotiate or simply to bargain. Negotiation involves skill and intelligence, whereas bargaining does not; even a four-year-old can bargain. The true skill in bargaining emerges when it is used strategically, like a chess move, as part of a hidden, more cunning plan. In such cases, bargaining becomes an intelligent strategy designed to divert the opponent’s attention from an unexpected move.

Therefore, if we do not plan out the strategy and optics how can we react with agility & grace to a surprise attack in a negotiation?

1). Boylan, R.M. (2006-2009). Conflicts and considerations comparing Abraham Maslow's hierarchy of needs to Jane Loevinger's model of ego development for assessing the level of development of a leader. M.A. Leadership Studies.