The reason to clearly state the root problem is that your goal in this specific instance is not to “fix my car.” It is to get to work. Stating the problem in this way opens up other options: taking the bus, calling a taxi, calling a friend, taking the day off, and so forth. A clear statement of the problem will help you to come up with clear options of how to fix it. Step 3 is to identify the key parties in the negotiation. You must identify the decision-maker, as well as the people with direct influence over the decision-maker. If you leave any required parties out, they may become upset
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