Introduction to Negotiation
When things are going well at work and everyone gets along, it’s easy to let your negotiation ability lapse. It never seems to endure, however. Change occurs, regardless of how much you dislike it. You can receive a new employer, employee, or coworker who upends your happy life.
When things change, it’s time to practice your negotiation ability so you can be your own advocate. If you want a promotion or a raise, for example, you should be able to justify why you deserve it. In this circumstance, practicing your persuasive speaking skills will be invaluable. Communication skills are crucial.
60% people view negotiation as an opportunity to reach an agreement, whereas 36% as a potentially uncomfortable discussion, and 4% as an interaction for a transaction. – Amstat news
Emotional intelligence is advantageous. It’s completely acceptable to inquire what you could have done better if someone was promoted ahead of you. When you ask for time to discuss the issue with your supervisor, use a mature, impartial tone of voice to come across as a colleague ready to learn, which positions you as a candidate who will be well thought of in the next round of promotions.
We feel that becoming emotionally invested in a change that does not benefit you individually will squander your time and distort your perspective. So what do you do? Here are some top skills required for effective negotiation which you can acquire and demonstrate in your professional career.
Top Negotiation Skills
Analysis of a Problem to Determine Interests and Goals
Effective negotiators must be able to assess a situation in order to discover each party’s interests in the negotiation. A thorough problem analysis identifies the problem, the parties involved, and the desired outcomes. In an employer-employee contract negotiation, for example, the topic or area where the parties differ may be salary or benefits. Identifying the issues for both sides might aid in reaching an agreement that is acceptable to both parties.
Preparing for a Meeting
The skills of a negotiator include preparing for the negotiation meeting before entering it. Aims, trading areas, and alternatives to the stated goals are all part of the preparation process. Furthermore, negotiators research the history of the two parties’ relationship as well as previous talks to identify areas of agreement and mutual aims. Previous precedents and outcomes can influence contemporary negotiations.
Active Listening Skills
Negotiators have the ability to actively listen to the opposing party during a debate. Active listening necessitates the capacity to read both body language and verbal communication. It is critical to listen to the other party in order to establish places for compromise during the meeting. Instead of expounding on the benefits of his position, the smart negotiator will spend more time listening to the opposing party.
Communication that is clear and effective
During the negotiation, negotiators must be able to communicate clearly and effectively with the opposing party. Misunderstandings might develop if the negotiator does not adequately convey his point. A competent negotiator must be able to communicate his intended outcome as well as his reasoning during a negotiation meeting.
Ethics and dependability
For an effective negotiator, ethical standards and dependability foster a trusting environment for discussions. Both parties in a negotiation must have faith that the other party will keep commitments and agreements. A negotiator must be able to follow through on his commitments when the bargaining process is over.
Process of Negotiation
A planned approach to negotiation as a skill may be beneficial in achieving a preferred conclusion. In a work setting, for example, a meeting with all parties involved may be required.
The negotiating process consists of the following stages:
- Preparation: Before any negotiations can begin, a decision must be made on when and where a meeting to discuss the matter will take place, as well as who will participate. Setting a time limit can also assist to avoid the conflict from escalating.
- Discussion: Individuals or members of each side present their case as they see it, i.e. their understanding of the situation, at this stage. During this stage, key skills include questioning, listening, and clarifying.
- Goals must be defined: The dialogue should clarify the goals, interests, and points of view of both sides of the argument. It is useful to prioritise these things. It is often possible to identify or develop some common ground through this clarification.
- Negotiate a Win-Win: This stage focuses on achieving a ‘win-win’ solution in which both parties believe they have achieved something beneficial from the negotiating process and both parties feel their point of view has been considered. A win-win situation is usually the best result. This may not ideally always be achievable, however, this is the ultimate goal of negotiation.
- Agreement: Once both sides’ perspectives and interests have been considered, agreement can be reached. Everyone concerned must maintain an open mind in order to reach an acceptable answer. Any agreement must be made crystal clear so that both parties understand what has been reached.
- Implementation of a strategy: Following the agreement stage, chart out a course of action for implementation so your final decision can see the light of day.
“Diplomacy is the art of letting someone else have your way.” – Sir David Frost
Knowing what you want, going after it, and respecting the other person in the process are all important aspects of negotiation. Keep in mind that the objective of bargaining is to reach an agreement. This means you must protect yourself while simultaneously being willing to compromise in order to please both parties.This is what effective negotiation looks like.
Related Reading: Essential Skills for a first time Manager, People Skills for a First Time Manager, 30-60-90 Day Plan for New Managers, Dos and Donts as First Time Manager, common mistakes to avoid as a new manager.
We’re sure that you want to become the best at negotiating like a pro and reaching favorable decisions at workplace. Who doesn’t? This is why we recommend checking out our First Time Manager Bootcamp to seed your skills and be the best leader who can negotiate effectively and win disagreements.
