Former FBI Hostage Negotiation Chief & Author Gary Noesner Discusses Waco, Anti-Government Conspiracy, and Negotiating

The last few years and, especially 2020, has polarized many people from family, friends, and country. There seems to be a big divide in politics, religious beliefs, and even whether science and experts are trustworthy. Most of us know someone–friend, family member, neighbor–that is caught up in a conspiracy theory or harmful belief system. To help them, I have always been a firm believer in putting yourself in their shoes, to understand how they “see the world” in order to help them. Respect and compassion and patience are all required.

My guest for this week’s blog,  Gary Noesner (former Chief Negotiator for the FBI) teaches this when he trains people to be more effective negotiators. He teaches that to help someone, actively listening and making sure the person knows you are really taking them seriously is so important. So, he says to do your best to understand the views and experiences of others without judgment. By doing this, you will be much more successful in connecting with them and influencing them constructively.