Value Creation: Social Capital, Negotiation Strategy, and Getting Things Done

Undergraduate / Graduate

This course empowers students to understand and navigate the complex intersections of social networks, negotiation, and value creation within organizational structures. In the initial weeks, we dive into the principles of social organization, applying social network analysis as a central framework. You'll learn to recognize and coordinate divergent interests within a social organization, optimizing for the best outcome. Our focus is not just on how you identify valuable opportunities within these networks but also on how to mobilize resources to actualize these opportunities. As the course progresses, we transition into the art of negotiation. Through simulated exercises, you will develop an 'interpersonal toolkit,' learning to persuade and collaborate with others effectively to achieve your objectives. We'll delve into key aspects of negotiation, such as overcoming communication obstacles, maximizing multiple interests, and tactics for coalition building. The course culminates by bringing these themes together: harnessing your social capital, leveraging effective negotiation strategies, and ultimately getting things done. Whether you're planning a future in business, policy, law, social work, academia, or beyond, these skills will prove invaluable. The goal is to equip students with the knowledge and tools to create value and drive outcomes, setting the foundation for a successful career.