5 Quick Win Negotiation Techniques Used By Skilled Negotiatorsnegotiators

Davis Miller

February 26, 2015

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Skilled negotiators are smart, savvy and knowledgeable. They know exactly how to land the best deals and they’re usually not afraid of taking chances. Winning negotiations is not that difficult when you know what you’re doing. In fact, many things are not even related to the technique per see, but about the way negotiators apply them in business. Here are 5 successful tactics that experienced negotiators often use to win.

1. Focus on people

During a business negotiation it’s really important to pay attention to the person in front of you. Don’t take anyone for granted and speak to them, not at them. Whether you’re an entrepreneur bargaining with investors, or a CEO discussing with employees, it’s certainly the best idea to showcase an interest. Try not to brag about your experience in a certain domain and keep the discussion centered on what you want to achieve. Active listening is equally important because it shows that you genuinely care for what your opponent is saying.

2. Assess body language

Skilled negotiators know that body language can make or break a business deal. Nervousness and anxiety have terrible effects. People start sweating, their voice is trembling and they can’t seem to find their words; on the other hand, we have negotiators who know how to master the art of business negotiations. They use body language to exude decisiveness, determination, and professionalism. Always look opponents straight in the eye, and if you’re feeling stressed or nervous, keep your sentences brief and concise.

3. Use solid information

Solid information is the key to winning negotiations. The more you know about your opponent, the higher chances you have to land a sweet deal. Skilled negotiators are well-aware that nothing can beat the power of good research in business. Sometimes, counterparts may try to disarm you with tricky questions (mainly related to numbers and statistics). That’s why you must be prepared for anything. Don’t let them intimidate you because nothing they can say will harm you.

Every allegation that you make should be backed up by solid proof. This doesn’t just show you’re an experienced business person; it highlights your level of professionalism, too. In negotiations, appearing prepared in front of potential partners proves you’re a reliable individual. This is what most companies want these days – partners in whom they can trust.

4. Make use of proper vocabulary

Skilled business people are articulate. They have impeccable grammar and excellent speaking abilities. This means that they’re exceptional negotiators. Good use of vocabulary matters a lot; however, you don’t want to exaggerate. Keep sentences short and use suitable language without emphasizing on fancy words in the hopes of drawing attention. Be genuine and let others know the real you. Don’t worry about making mistakes; in fact, mistakes will allow you bring a little humor in the negotiation. If you’re an IT company and you’re trying to close a deal with an advertising agency, you should choose your words wisely. In this case, it’s important to use phrases everyone at the negotiation table can understand. Quit the technical vocabulary and find a way to make yourself understood with plain words that are equally professional.

5. Have a positive attitude

Nothing beats a positive attitude in business. When CEOs, managers and entrepreneurs are satisfied with their companies, it’s natural for them to enter negotiations with a positive attitude. Don’t let opponents intimidate you in any way and do your best to reach a mutual agreement. Be willing to compromise as long as the end result suits you and your opponent equally. Having sound negotiation skills is important, although this doesn’t mean you should be aggressive with opponents. On the contrary, show respect and admiration for the person you’re doing business with.

Every experienced business person will say that you can’t master the art of negotiations if you don’t practice, negotiation workshops can be of great help. The finest techniques are honed in time, so you should be willing to make a lot of mistakes in order to succeed eventually. Find a personal style, be genuine and try not to use unethical techniques to win deals. Honesty says a lot about you as a human being, too, so it’s best to use if you want to build relationships and have a thriving company.