There are specific rules or concepts that can help you settle your disagreements, whether you’re negotiating a pay rise at work, scheduling a vacation with your mates, or negotiating with a seller or buyer on an online auction. Keep your eyes on the prize. Don’t let your emotions get in the way. Before attempting to negotiate anything, it is critical to leave your emotions at the door.
Rule 1: Understand your own desires as well as those of the other party.
Understand your own desires as well as those of the other party. Although it may appear straightforward, many sides are unsure of what they desire. They are so enraged that they haven’t even considered how to address the problem. How can people get what they want if they don’t know what they want? They might want to examine the circumstances that brought them to this point in the negotiation.
“No problem is so deep that it cannot be overcome, given the will of all parties, through discussion and negotiation rather than force and violence.”
Nelson Mandela
Rule 2: Preparation is key.
Do your homework. Once you’ve decided what you want, you’ll need to conduct some study and planning. It could be as simple as writing down your points on a piece of paper, or it could be as complicated as conducting research to help show why you deserve a pay rise. In either case, you must be prepared. Otherwise, you risk making a concession or agreeing to something you’ll come to regret later.
Rule 3: Let others talk.
It is common knowledge that listening has become a lost art. People will astound you with their inability to stop chatting. The best negotiators start by questioning and then listening. To have an impact on a negotiation, one does not need to be the loudest or best talker, but they must listen. Don’t get so caught up in making sure everyone hears what you have to say that you forget to listen.
One of the best ways to persuade others is by listening to them.”
Dean Rusk
Rule 4: Make your value known.
It is naïve to presume that everyone understands what you, what you’re negotiating and why you feel the need to negotiate. You should know your environment and market better than anybody else, as well as what makes you worthwhile, therefore lay your cards on the table. It is more difficult to disagree with data, and it will also help them comprehend why the offer is valuable.
Rule 5: Body language is just as important.
Body language is vital for good relations and communications, but it’s highly significant when negotiating. It is crucial to keep the dynamic cordial, somewhat warm and not too confrontational. Don’t close yourself off; this will help maintain high engagement levels. It is more likely that if you are open then others will be open with you.
Rule 6: Convey confidence.
This is, without a doubt, the most important detail. Shaky hands, hushed words, and a jittery demeanour will get you nowhere fast. It’s natural to be scared or/and nervous when negotiating, especially if you’re new to the process, but you must strive to hide it. If you’ve planned, know how you’re going to approach the negotiation, and know what you want, you should be calm and composed.
“So much of life is a negotiation – so even if you’re not in business, you have opportunities to practice all around you.”
Kevin O’Leary
Toni is an Administrative Personal Assistant and Business Executive, who loves travelling, health and beauty, lifestyle and business. She regularly spends her time multitasking.
