1) What is the Negotiation Skills training?

This practical training helps participants strengthen their ability to prepare for, plan and conduct effective negotiations in the IOM context. Through discussions, case studies and role plays, participants develop the skills, techniques and strategies needed to navigate negotiation challenges and achieve constructive outcomes with a wide range of stakeholders.

The training covers topics such as IOM's negotiation environment, negotiation fundamentals, negotiation planning and preparation, stakeholder engagement, communication techniques, common negotiation challenges, and approaches to achieving mutually beneficial outcomes.

2) Who is the training intended for?

The training is intended for IOM staff who are involved in negotiations as part of their role, including discussions related to operations, administration, resources, partnerships, coordination or stakeholder engagement.

3) What are the learning objectives of the training?

By the end of the training, participants should be able to:

  • Understand IOM's negotiation environment.
  • Identify the skills required for effective negotiations.
  • Apply core negotiation principles and techniques.
  • Recognise and address common negotiation challenges.
  • Prepare and plan negotiations effectively.
  • Conduct negotiations confidently and achieve constructive outcomes.

4) How long is the training?

The training is delivered over two days and consists of 7 hours of learning in total. Each training day lasts 3.5 hours, usually morning or afternoon session.

5) How many cohorts will happen in 2026?

  • Cohort 1: 24-25 March 2026 | 09:00-12:30 AM Geneva time
  • Cohort 2: 24-25 March 2026 | 2:00-5:30 PM Geneva time
  • Cohort 3: 17-18 June 2026 | 09:00-12:30 AM Geneva time
  • Cohort 4: 17-18 June 2026 | 2:00-5:30 PM Geneva time
  • Cohort 5: 22-23 October 2026 | 09:00-12:30 AM Geneva time

7) How many participants can attend each cohort?

Each cohort is limited to 18 participants. As places are limited, applications will be reviewed according to the eligibility and prioritisation criteria.

8) Can I choose my preferred cohort?

If several cohorts are announced at the same time, applicants may indicate their preferred cohort. Where only one cohort is offered, applicants will not be asked to choose between cohort options.

9) If I apply, is my participation automatically confirmed?

No. Submitting an application does not guarantee participation. Applications will be reviewed, and selected participants will receive confirmation before attending the training.

10) What criteria will be used to review applications?


Eligibility Requirements

To be considered, applicants must meet all eligibility requirements listed below:

  • Active staff holding a Regular, Fixed-term, Special fixed-term, or Special short-term (graded or ungraded) contract.

  • Completion of all IOM mandatory training.

  • Expected to remain with IOM for at least six months following completion of the learning initiative (supervisor confirmation of the expected extension is sufficient).

  • Managerial approval to attend the learning initiative, confirming alignment with the participant’s learning goals.

  • Commitment to complete the entire learning initiative, including active participation and camera use during virtual sessions.

  • English proficiency sufficient to understand and actively participate in the learning initiative.


Selection and Prioritisation Criteria

If the number of eligible applications exceeds the number of available places, applications may be prioritised based on:

  • the extent to which the applicant's current role requires negotiation, stakeholder engagement or influencing others;
  • whether the applicant has previously attended the same or similar training;
  • the applicant's current confidence and knowledge level in the relevant skills;
  • the applicant's motivation and link between the training and their current role;
  • the relevance of the concrete negotiation-related example provided in the application.

11) Can I apply if I previously attended another Negotiation Skills cohort?

You may apply, but priority may be given to applicants who have not previously attended an IOM Negotiation Skills training.

12) Can I apply if I attended a similar training outside IOM?

Yes, you may still apply. However, applicants who have not previously attended similar training may be prioritised, depending on the number of applications received.

13) What should I include in the motivation question?

Applicants should explain how the training would support their current role and responsibilities. The answer should include a concrete work-related situation where stronger negotiation, influencing or stakeholder engagement skills would be beneficial. Applicants should also explain how the training could benefit their work, team or IOM more broadly.

14) What kind of example should I provide in the application?

The example should be a real work-related situation where the applicant was required to negotiate, influence others, manage competing interests or reach an agreement with stakeholders. For example, the situation could involve:

  • Coordinating with internal or external stakeholders
  • Balancing competing priorities or interests
  • Negotiating resources, timelines or responsibilities
  • Managing disagreements or differing expectations
  • Seeking agreement on a proposed solution or course of action

15) Do I need supervisor approval to apply?

Yes. Applicants should upload on the application form the supervisor approval confirming their participation in the course and their release during the training hours.

16) Do I need to upload my contract?

Yes. Applicants should upload their current contract, covering at least 6 months from the end date of the training, or provide confirmation from their supervisor that their contract is expected to be extended.

17) What happens if my application is late or incomplete?

Late or incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants should ensure that all required information and supporting documents are submitted before the deadline.

18) Can I attend only part of the training?

Participants are expected to attend the full training. As the course is delivered over multiple sessions and includes practical exercises, discussions and role plays, full participation is important.

19) Will the training be recorded?

Details on recording, if applicable, will be communicated to selected participants before the training.

20) Can affiliate workforce apply?

No. This training is only open to eligible IOM staff members. Affiliate workforce members are not eligible to apply.

21) Are staff on SLWOP eligible to apply?

No. Staff on SLWOP are not eligible to participate in SDL programmes during their period of Special Leave Without Pay.

22) Where can I ask questions about the application process?

For questions related to the application process, please submit a ticket here.