Certified Contract Management Associate Practice Test

Conducting discussions is a job task under which competency?

1. Select source

2. Finalize negotiations

3. Respond to clarification questions

4. Plan negotiations

The correct answer is: Plan negotiations

Conducting discussions falls under the competency of planning negotiations, as it involves preparing for the negotiation process by determining the topics to be addressed and establishing strategies for effective communication. By planning negotiations, a contract manager can ensure that discussions are organized and goal-oriented, which is crucial for achieving favorable outcomes. This competency emphasizes the importance of having clear objectives and a structured approach, which is essential for engaging with stakeholders and addressing relevant issues during the negotiation. Other choices may involve parts of the negotiation process, but none focus specifically on the preparatory discussions that set the stage for negotiations, which is the core of planning. For example, finalizing negotiations would be a result of the discussions rather than a preparatory task, and responding to clarification questions typically occurs during the negotiation or after asks for clarity. Selecting sources pertains to identifying suppliers or partners, which is more about sourcing than the negotiation dialogue itself. Thus, the best fit for conducting discussions is firmly rooted in the planning phase.