Be clear about fallback positions and their consequences before you start to negotiate. Also, evaluate your partners' options beforehand . In negotiation, it is important to think several moves in advance and anticipate your partners' needs. When you focus on your motivation for partnering and your potential partners' motivation, then you are looking at interests . When you get bogged down in achieving a particular goal, then you are distracted by positions .
Interests form the building blocks of lasting agreements.
Come prepared to commit resources. Any request to take on greater responsibility must be accompanied by an offer of resources. Approach this issue with an earnest commitment to supporting the goals and the needed change. Resources can take the form of funding, staff, materials, supplies, transportation, and facilities, often in combination. An adequate commitment of funds and other resources demonstrates your commitment to, and full support of the partnership and enhanced programming for children and families.