| Word | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| impasse | when two sides hold different positions that they are unwilling to change | "We were close to an agreement but we suddenly hit an impasse over payment terms." |
| intermediary | a person who communicates between the two sides of a negotiation | "They've been negotiating through an intermediary after that big argument last week." |
| issue | a topic that needs to be discussed in a negotiation | "Money is the biggest issue in this negotiation, but resources and responsibilities are important issues too." |
| mediation | when a neutral person or group comes in to identify the issues, explore options and clarify goals | "If we use mediation, it may help to move the negotiations forward." |
| offer | one or more options that is sent by one negotiator to the other | "Let's offer them a one-year service contract and see how they respond." |