What is the primary goal of consensus-building in negotiation?

The primary goal of consensus-building in negotiation is to achieve agreement through collaboration. This approach emphasizes the importance of involving all parties in the negotiation process to ensure that their perspectives and interests are heard and considered. Consensus-building fosters a cooperative environment where participants work together to identify solutions that satisfy the needs of all involved, rather than simply forcing an agreement or prioritizing one party's needs over another's.

In this context, building consensus often involves open communication, active listening, and a willingness to explore creative options that can lead to a mutually beneficial outcome. This collaborative spirit not only enhances the likelihood of reaching an agreement that is acceptable to everyone but also helps to strengthen relationships among the negotiating parties, paving the way for future collaboration. The emphasis on collaboration distinguishes consensus-building from other approaches that might rely on unilateral decision-making or coercion.