The current American President, perhaps, was previously, best known, for his book, The Art of the Deal. He ran for office, based largely, on his purported ability, to negotiate deals, and get the best, possible results! Every individual, who ascends to, and/ or assumes, any position of leadership, must realize and recognize, one of the most essential skills and abilities, is possessing a quality, meaningful, effective, ability to negotiate. Some of the basic reasons, this is so essential, is to be able to achieve, generating a consensus, and a meeting – of – the – minds, in terms of legislation, event planning, and motivating and inspiring others, to share his views, so a quality, relevant, sustainable system, becomes viable, etc. This article will, therefore, briefly discuss and evaluate, 5 steps, towards becoming a better negotiator, and quality negotiating.
1. Consider what you seek, and why?: Before one negotiates, he must possess a clear – cut idea, of what he hopes to achieve, what he believes it might achieve, and why! It’s essential to go, beyond the norm, but strive to consider alternatives, as well as potential ramifications. Far too often, individuals believe they have been victorious in their negotiations, only to realize, in the future, proof of the adage, Beware of what you hope for!
2. How well will you know your negotiating adversary?: If you hope to be successful in this pursuit, it’s essential, to do thorough research, and best understand, what the other side, wants and needs/ considers a priority! Will you consider, your adversary’s priorities, and basic needs, because until/ unless you do, there will be little chance, of achieving a meeting – of – the – minds, or any form of consensus/ agreement? When a negotiator begins the process, with a keen understanding of what others want and need, he becomes capable on focusing on the best way to proceed, which is nearly always, win – win negotiating!
3. Best choices/ options: There’s a major difference, between making a decision, and making the best possible one! The strongest negotiating process and procedure, is achieved, when both sides, become more capable and willing, to seek viable solutions, and proceed to negotiate, based on doing so!
4. Prioritize for specific needs: Every group has its own, specific heritage, needs, goals and priorities, and, therefore, a true leader, must focus on listening and learning, effectively, proceeding with genuine empathy, and negotiating every relevant deal, accordingly!
5. Seek win – win solutions: Some believe negotiating is about, merely, winning, but the best negotiators, realize, until/ unless, a negotiation is based on win/ win solutions, it rarely generates the best possible results!
If hope to be an effective leader, you have to become a quality negotiator. Will you be ready, willing and able, to use the best approaches and techniques?