What do you do if you're facing challenges negotiating contracts remotely?

Leverage technology platforms such as project management software, collaborative document editing tools (Online 365 or Google Docs), and virtual meeting platforms to facilitate communication and collaboration. Also, don't be afraid to use an AI transcription program that can give all parties summaries of conversations for easy reference. These tools enable real-time collaboration on documents, scheduling of meetings, and tracking of progress, ensuring that everyone stays aligned and informed throughout the negotiation process.

Setting expectations and effective communication with internal and external parties can help to overcome challenges in contract negotiations. Whether to use phone, email, software tools or meeting virtually or physically for discussion or negotiation may be subject to preferences of relevant parties. Flexibility to use more than one channel or means of communication may enhance effectiveness and efficiency.

Begin by clearly outlining the objectives and scope of the negotiation. This sets the groundwork for the entire process. Clearly define what needs to be achieved, whether it's reaching a specific agreement on terms and conditions, setting deadlines, or addressing particular concerns. By establishing clear objectives upfront, all parties involved understand what they are working towards and can align their efforts accordingly. Then, specify the communication channels and frequency that will be utilized throughout the negotiation process. Will you primarily communicate via email, video calls? Setting expectations around communication helps ensure that everyone knows how and when they can expect updates or responses.

Effective communication is vital to the success of contract negotiation, under different kinds of circumstances and environment. From my experience, it is beneficial to summarise key points of discussions in writing after oral discussions to avoid any misunderstanding and serve as record for future reference or sharing with stakeholders, where necessary or appropriate.

The mindset and efforts of building rapport would generally be mutually beneficial, according to my experience. The process of cultivating mutual respect, understanding and rapport may take some time; yet valuable to create a more positive environment for discussion and negotiation. Active listening, understanding multiple points of view, emotional intelligence and empathy can help to build rapport.

Follow up promptly can assist to accelerate the process in contract negotiation. When there are issues being agreed or there are planned changes in the intended contract, follow up by promptly proposing appropriate wording or amendments for relevant clauses in the draft contract(with track changes ) would be efficient and effective.