Successful negotiation means that no party should feel left out and should leave the discussion table with a win win feeling. The art and skill of negotiation has been lost in the modern business world today, but it is the basic core element of business life. Many issues , agreements, policies and differences of opinion , could be solved by negotiation. I would suggest that many high successfull business people you see today owe thier success to negotiation. Well try these tips , if it's worked for others it will work for you.



Many have enhanced their relationships and have risen through the ranks faster accomplishing more in months than they had in years.

Tip 1: Stop using the word "negotiate" when negotiating.

I know, it sounds strange, However, angry, skeptical people come to the negotiating table with a set criteria in their minds. The word "negotiate" sounds like concede in the beginning and they feel they are right. Resistance to change their minds or moods will slow the process down and the word "negotiate" will trigger that resistance. While the word connotes settlement, arrangement, or agreement between two parties who are dissatisfied or opposed to each other, it will not be perceived as such. Instead of saying, "let us negotiate," choose positive, action words like, "let us agree," "let's work things out," and "you'll be interested in this." Positive statements will make people more amenable to listening to your proposal.

Tip 2: Write down your objectives before meeting to negotiate.

Outline your targets and goals as well as set your priorities before coming to the negotiating table. List your long and short-term goals and prioritorize them from most to least important. Identify which of these goals you are willing to be flexible on, as well as the ones that are non-negotiable. Figure out the least amount you are willing to take in the negotiation. Then when you arrive at the bargaining table, you will be able to arrange meaningful conversation from the start which will lead to favorable results in the end.

Tip 3: Find out about the possible obstacles and solutions. Negotiation is rooted from the want to eliminate lack on both sides of the table.You are trying to provide for the needs of both sides. Thinking of any potential objections that might arise and having alternatives at hand will lead towards a more successful dialogue. Always enter a negotiation as prepared as possible.

Tip 4: Lay Your Cards on the Table

Avoid going around the point and get all parties to do the same. Ignore boredom, negativity and drifting off the point, by presenting good concrete starting points. All of these factors can negatively impact the negotiation process and lead to a less than favorable result. If you communicate your needs in as comprehensive way possible, receive the same from the other party, you will have a solid foundation from which to proceed..

Tip 5: Comfort is the key

In all aspects of the negotiation, make sure that a certain level of comfort is maintained for both sides. No one should feel like they're losing the deal or else objectivity and will disappear and your leverage will go out the window with it.. The value of negotiation is when you can effect a win-win situation for both of you. If cooperation is what you desire, then you must put yourself into the other person's shoes and talk according to the with the perspective of the opposing and your side so that when concessions are necessary, they are made to the benefit of all. You can keep the other party interested if you cite the benefits that they can get from agreeing to your proposal. This way, they will feel comfortable throughout talking to you about their needs which you can take into account during the process.

Tip 6: People want to hear about Success.

Demonstrate how both of you can make the plan work effectively. Convince the other party that if you work together, with a viable plan in place that takes into account both sides' needs, you can make things happen. Tell them that you know somebody who used a similar strategy with great results. Relate anecdotal information which proves the feasibility of the plan that's been worked out.

Tip 7: Follow the Golden Rule.

While this tip is listed last, it should be present in throughout the negotiating process. You will want to treat others in a way that is both comfortable, professional and positive, because that is the way you want them to treat you. Be considerate and responsive. At the very beginning of the discussion, you can even give them simple gift, something small which express your willingness to work with them. Serve them snacks, breakfast, lunch, or dinner throughout the process and break the ice before sitting down to business by engaging them in a bit of talk about their hobbies and interests. If you treat them as more of a business friend than a competitor or enemy, the other party will naturally reciprocate in kind making any negotiation much smoother.

Put these basic tips in practice and you will go a long way towards improving your relationships and business meetings.