What are the stages involved in the negotiation process?

The stages involved in the negotiation process are best represented by the series of steps in option B. This sequence—preparing, gathering information, exploring, probing, proposing, and confirming—aligns with established best practices in negotiation theory.

Preparing is the initial stage where parties set objectives and strategize their approach, which is fundamental to effective negotiation. Following this, gathering information allows negotiators to understand the context, needs, and interests of the other party, which is crucial for identifying mutually agreeable solutions.

Exploring and probing involve active engagement and dialogue during the negotiation, where negotiators seek to uncover underlying interests and constraints. This interactive phase encourages clarity and can reveal shared interests that may not have been initially apparent.

Proposing is the stage where negotiators present their offers or solutions to the other party, based on the information obtained. It’s a critical moment where the outlined interests meet tangible proposals.

Finally, confirming involves reaching an agreement and ensuring that all parties are on the same page regarding the terms, which solidifies the negotiation's outcome and lays the groundwork for the execution of the agreement.

This structured approach effectively captures how negotiations unfold and provides a comprehensive framework that guides negotiators toward successful outcomes.