Final answer:
If a negotiation hits an impasse, remain calm, listen, and ask open-ended questions to understand the other party's perspective. If an informal resolution fails, seek a third-party mediator or supervisor assistance. Effective communication and a focus on problem-solving rather than blame are essential for navigating an impasse.
Step-by-step explanation:
When facilitating a negotiation encountering an impasse, the first step is to take a direct approach to resolve the situation by remaining calm, listening actively, and asking open-ended questions. If the direct approach does not yield results, it may be necessary to seek assistance from a third party, such as a supervisor or HR department, or even consider the engagement of a neutral mediator.
Key strategies include focusing on solving the problem without assigning blame, employing bridge-building conversations that involve taking turns speaking and listening, and expressing one's own position in terms of feelings and rationale. It is important to manage conflict positively to maintain good working relationships and move toward resolution.
An alternative if an informal approach hasn't worked is to bring in a neutral third-party to help break the deadlock. Sometimes, if the impasse involves an area of your expertise, you could suggest an alternative solution, provided it is done tactfully and politely. A productive conversation can lead to mutual understanding, and potentially, repair wounded feelings or perceptions.