Depok-Communication and negotiation are skills that play a major role in building and maintaining good relationships with various parties, including individuals, groups, and organizations. Communication skills need to be developed through several aspects, such as the ability to formulate clear messages, listen, interpersonal communication, and mass and media communication. Meanwhile, in negotiations, it is necessary to deepen the ability to understand the interests of other parties, manage conflicts, and be creative in solving problems. To equip students with these skills, the Public Relations study program of the Vocational Education Program, Universitas Indonesia (UI), through the public relations (PR) agency Makaravox UI, held a public lecture on March 20, 2025 featuring Irfan Wahid—or often called Ipang Wahid—a creator and practitioner of political communication who currently serves as Special Staff to the Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia.
In his presentation, Ipang emphasized that negotiation is a crucial skill in achieving goals. He believes every negotiation must begin with a clear end goal in mind. He emphasized the importance of being open-minded, creative, and able to devise the most relevant approach, while also embracing common sense.
(Photo: Ipang provides an example of a case study in communication and negotiation)
According to him, the main strength in negotiation lies not only in the content of the argument, but also in the way you communicate. “Basically, everyone likes attention and praise. Therefore, gathering as much information as possible about the person you’re talking to is important so that the message you convey touches their personal side. In the negotiation process, I recommend avoiding a direct approach. Instead, learn more subtle strategies, such as starting with praise, establishing a comfortable atmosphere, but still directing the conversation toward the desired goal,” said Ipang.
One example of negotiation discussed was the gubernatorial election period in one of Indonesia’s provinces. The campaign strategy was developed based on data and public insights. With a 100-day deadline, the campaign team promoted programs highly relevant to the community’s needs. This strategy wasn’t just promises, but was designed based on survey results. Through the right approach and emotionally engaging communication, the strategy ultimately proved successful.
(Photo: Giving of a certificate of appreciation to Ipang Wahid by Public Relations lecturer, Jojo S. Nugroho)
Ipang added, “I emphasize the importance of making every meeting a memorable moment. The best communication is the one that creates an emotional bond, as this is the most profitable long-term investment in both social and professional life.”
The Director of the UI Vocational Education Program, Padang Wicaksono, S.E., Ph.D, said that this public lecture, students not only gain theoretical knowledge, but also real-world practice from reliable practitioners. “By equipping themselves with strategic communication and negotiation skills, I hope that students will become adaptive and professional public relations practitioners in facing various challenges in the world of work. In addition, this public lecture provides a forum for students to engage in discussions and two-way communication with communication experts who have extensive experience in their fields,” Padang concluded.
