Women in Consulting Engineering Calgary hosted an interactive workshop on May 12 led by Mariel Higuerey. The session explored how emotions, cognitive biases, and power dynamics shaped negotiation outcomes, and participants learned practical strategies to remain steady, credible, and effective in high‑stakes conversations.

Negotiation outcomes were framed as being driven less by logic and more by perception, emotion, and power dynamics. Participants examined emotional triggers, cognitive biases, and perceived power imbalances. The discussion covered anchoring, framing, loss aversion, and overconfidence, and introduced practical strategies for regulating emotions, managing difficult tactics, and maintaining ethical influence under pressure. The session connected emotional intelligence directly to negotiation credibility.

Mariel guided participants through applying these concepts using reflection and hands‑on practice. Attendees revisited a challenging negotiation, identified emotional triggers and power assumptions, practiced reframing and neutral language, and participated in a role‑play scenario involving a difficult counterpart to apply emotional regulation strategies in real time.

Whether participants negotiated frequently or occasionally, the workshop strengthened their ability to navigate tension, build trust, and achieve more intentional outcomes. The event provided an opportunity for learning, connection, and practical skill development.

Thank you to our sponsor for this event!