How to Negotiate an Issue With Your Headteacher

Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1

   Step 1: Make sure your suggestion is realistic

   For example, you're never going to convince your headteacher to let your school have a 10 week Christmas holiday or change the uniform to pink.
   
   He/she will not be impressed if you waste their time over something ridiculous.
2. 2

   Step 2: sensible and feasible.

   It is VERY important to choose reliable people who are known for being polite and trustworthy, and not people who may become aggressive or rude.
   
   Do not bring more than about 4 people. , Don't just barge into their office and spring your visit upon them unannounced as he or she may be busy.
   
   Let them know if you are bringing other people with you. , Knock on their door, and go in only when invited. , I'm here because I would like to discuss the possibility of arranging earlier study leave."
   
   , For example, "I realise that you may have concerns over whether the idea of having water fountains around school may invite problems with people misusing them.
   
   However, I think this could be solved by having prefect monitors or teachers around to make sure nobody causes trouble."
   
   "I have spoken with teachers and some of my fellow students about this and they all agree that this would be a good thing to do."
   
   So if you were trying to make it so that students were allowed to bring mobile phones to school, you might say, "Many parents worry about their children walking home from school on their own and would feel much better if they knew that they had a way of contacting them if they got into trouble."
   
   LISTEN to what they have to say. , You want to stay on their good side, and appear polite and mature.
   
   If it is appropriate, shake their hand.
3. 3

   Step 3: If it will make you feel more confident

4. 4

   Step 4: get together a small (and I mean small) group of friends to come with you

5. 5

   Step 5: but only if they can help you to argue your point- don't just bring them along to hang around behind you and giggle.

6. 6

   Step 6: Pre-arrange an appointment with the headteacher at a time that is convenient through their secretary.

7. 7

   Step 7: Arrive to your appointment on time- lateness gets the negotiation off to a bad start.

8. 8

   Step 8: Thank your headteacher for allowing you an audience with them and state the reason for your appointment; for example

9. 9

   Step 9: "I really appreciate you taking the time to speak to me.

10. 10

    Step 10: Get straight in with why it is a good idea

11. 11

    Step 11: and outline all the benefits it could bring.

12. 12

    Step 12: If there has been opposition to your proposal in the past

13. 13

    Step 13: or you can think of reason why the proposal may be rejected

14. 14

    Step 14: try to explain any ways you have thought of that could eliminate any worries the headteacher may have.

15. 15

    Step 15: It might be a good idea to tell your headteacher about any support or approval you have been met with when talking to people- particularly teachers- about your proposal

16. 16

    Step 16: If it is applicable

17. 17

    Step 17: for instance if you are trying to change a rule

18. 18

    Step 18: be sure to explain the current system's flaws and how your proposal would change this.

19. 19

    Step 19: When you have finished speaking

20. 20

    Step 20: let your headteacher speak and discuss with him or her any issues they may have calmly.

21. 21

    Step 21: Always thank your headteacher for their time

22. 22

    Step 22: even if they have said no to your proposal.

Detailed Guide

About the Author