In negotiations and mediations, non-verbal cues can affect the other party’s perception of you and your message. For example, if you are negotiating with someone and you cross your arms, the other person may interpret this as a defensive posture and assume that you are not open to their ideas. Similarly, if you avoid eye contact, it can be interpreted as a lack of confidence or honesty. Therefore, it is essential to be aware of the non-verbal cues you are giving off during mediation. By paying attention to your own non-verbal cues and those of the other party, you can better understand the situation and adjust your approach to achieve a more positive outcome.
Attitudes Can Be Expressed By Non-Verbal Cues
Attitudes expressed by non-verbal cues can have a significant impact on mediation and negotiations in general. Non-verbal cues include things like body language, tone of voice, facial expressions, and gestures. These cues can convey important information about a person’s attitude, emotions, and intentions.
On the other hand, positive non-verbal cues can help build rapport and establish trust between parties. For example, smiling and maintaining eye contact can convey openness, warmth, and friendliness, which can help put the other person at ease and create a more positive atmosphere for negotiation or mediation.
Can attitudes be contagious?
Yes, attitudes can be contagious. Our own attitudes, which are essentially the beliefs and feelings that shape our behavior and interactions with others, can easily influence the attitudes of others around us.
Research has shown that people tend to mimic the attitudes and behaviors of those around them. This phenomenon is actually referred to as “emotional contagion,” which is the spread of emotions and attitudes from one person to another. For example, if someone around you is expressing a positive attitude, you are more likely to adopt a positive attitude as well.
Our attitudes can also be shared through social learning. People learn from the attitudes and behaviors of those around them, especially those who they perceive as role models or leaders. For instance, children learn attitudes from their parents, teachers, and peers, and employees learn attitudes from their supervisors and coworkers. Similarly, clients will learn from or mimic the attitudes of their attorneys, particularly during mediations. Therefore, it is important to be mindful of the attitudes we express and the impact they have on others.
How Attorneys Can Influence the Outcome by their Attitude
Attorneys play a crucial role in representing their clients during mediation, and their behavior and attitude can influence the outcome of the process. Here are a few ways in which an attorney’s attitude can impact their client during mediation:
Confidence: An attorney who exudes confidence and competence can help put their client at ease and instill a sense of trust in them. This can help the client feel more comfortable and confident in the mediation process, which can lead to a more positive outcome.
Advocacy: An attorney who is a strong advocate for their client can help ensure that their client’s interests are represented and that they receive a fair settlement. This can help the client feel that their concerns are being taken seriously and that they have someone on their side fighting for them.
Communication: An attorney who communicates effectively with their client can help them understand the mediation process, their options, and the potential outcomes. This can help the client make informed decisions and feel more in control of the situation.
On the other hand, an attorney who is negative, confrontational, or unprofessional will most certainly have a negative impact on the client’s experience and the outcome of the mediation. The client may feel uneasy, discouraged, or disrespected, which can make it harder for them to engage effectively in the process and achieve a positive result.