6 Tips for a Successful Business Negotiation
Reading Time: 4 minutes Negotiation is an integral part of the business that will help you grow and acquire what you need. No matter if it’s about lease, sale, acquisition or any other transaction, with successful business negotiation techniques. A successful negotiation leads to a successful business and this is why you should also concentrate on this aspect in your career.
To be able to do this properly, you need to develop methods and knowledge that will help you be a pro negotiator. With that in mind, here are some tips that will help you turn any negotiations into success.
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#1. Be very well prepared
Never go into negotiations blind. This means that you need to do a comprehensive research about the other party by thoroughly reviewing their business and image. Thanks to social networks, you can do this fairly well but also check for press clippings and articles about the company.
Review the negotiator as well by examining their bio or LinkedIn profile so you would know what to expect. It’s important to know what kind of negotiations the other party handled before and how it all resolved. Also, make sure to research the market and see what competitors of that party may be offering as well.
#2. Be professional no matter what
Negotiations can sometimes be uncomfortable, but no matter the atmosphere it’s important to stay professional and courteous. The same applies if you really want to win the negotiations and plan to be aggressive. Well, don’t since nobody likes a bully and you may have to do the business with that person or company again sometime.
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Furthermore, the way you handle negotiation will also paint the picture of your image to the party you are negotiating with. And if you leave a positive impression on them, that will help you build a good reputation for yourself in the business.
#3. Draft the first version of the contract
The contract will most likely change several times before signing, but drafting the first version will help you cover important issues. This is something that is a common practice when negotiating and crucial for the process. It will also let the other side know what about the key points you want to discuss.
But make sure that you balance those key points well since it’s not good to start negotiations with a contract proposal that other side will never sign. Negotiations are about compromise and balance, and you need to give some to win some.
#4. Be prepared to walk away
Now, negotiating may be the battle of wits and nerves, but if you can’t reach an agreement with the other side, then simply walk away. It’s better to refuse a bad agreement than sign the one you will significantly regret later. This is not as easy as it sounds, of course, but is sometimes more than necessary to get the things done.
Know what you want to achieve with negotiations like target price and then set the line with a walkaway price. Always have data to show that your offer is reasonable and let stats speak for themselves. But in case you are faced with an unfavorable ultimatum, don’t be afraid to leave negotiations and turn to other offers.
#5. Know when to hire professionals
Some negotiations will be easy, while others can be stressful and demanding. By knowing your limits you are not proclaiming surrender, but acknowledging you need help. Introducing business agents to negotiations will build your credibility and image of someone who is not afraid to pull out the big guns.
If the deal you are negotiating surpasses your expertize, then hiring personnel with qualification in the field is a prudent move. Not to mention that you can learn a lot just by watching professionals at work and maybe use that knowledge in the future.
#6. Think about alternatives as well
When you are negotiating, it’s good to have competitive alternatives which will enhance your position. For example, if you want to buy a product it’s better to have several offers than only one. These alternatives will let the parties involved know they have competitions and thus you may get better conditions.
Finally
The key to good negotiation is to do your research about the other party and know what you want. If you are not good at negotiating, then consider hiring a professional who will do it for you. In the end, it’s important to know your limits and be ready to compromise in order to have a successful business negotiation.
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