Negotiation is a critical communication skill that is necessary for anyone in any occupation. Whether it be in business, politics, or even in everyday interpersonal communication, it is important to have strong negotiation skills in order to get what you want. Being able to negotiate effectively can make all the difference between achieving your desired outcome and getting nowhere.
But what makes for a successful negotiator? While there is no one-size-fits-all answer, there are some universal skills that successful negotiators possess. Here are the top negotiation skills that everyone needs to master in order to be successful.
- Preparation
One of the most important negotiation skills is being prepared. This means doing research, anticipating the other party’s point of view, and having a strategy in place. Doing your research and understanding the other party’s needs or interests can provide you with helpful insights and can give you an edge in the negotiation.
Having a written game plan and goal—as well as plans for any possible counteroffers—can help you stay focused and on track during the negotiation process. Knowing the market value of what you are negotiating and understanding potential problems that may arise can help you prepare for any surprises along the way.
- Active Listening
Active listening is one of the most essential negotiation skills. This means really taking the time to listen carefully to the other party and understanding their perspective. Being able to understand where the other person is coming from will help you create an empathetic connection and make it easier to come up with solutions that meet both parties’ needs.
It is also important to pay attention to the other person’s body language and tone of voice. This can help you gain insight into how they are feeling and what their true interests are. To ensure that you are truly listening, you should make sure to repeat back what you heard and ask clarifying questions when needed.
- Communication
Being able to communicate forcefully and clearly is also a key negotiation skill. This includes setting out your position, making your points concisely, and presenting any evidence you have to support your position.
It is also important to pay attention to the language you use. Using more neutral, objective language can help avoid creating tension and make it easier to reach an agreement. Furthermore, being able to use the right words can help encourage the other party to come to a compromise.
- Adaptability
Negotiation is rarely a straightforward, one-way process. Things often get complicated, and compromise is usually needed on both sides. As such, being able to adapt and adjust your mindset and strategy is key.
The ability to shift tactics as needed and think on your feet can be incredibly helpful when it comes to negotiation. Being able to think outside the box, come up with creative solutions, and remain flexible will give you an edge and can increase the chances of achieving a successful outcome in the negotiation.
- Emotional Control
The negotiation process can be emotionally charged and stressful. As such, being able to maintain emotional control is a key negotiation skill. Of course, it is important that you have sufficient passion and energy to make your point, but it is also important to remain cool and composed in order to keep the negotiation on track.
The ability to keep your emotions in check can help you stay focused and make it easier to reach a mutually beneficial outcome. It is also important to remember that negotiation is a two-way process and that it is better to be patient and listen, rather than getting stuck in an argument with the other party.
Negotiation is a critical communication skill for anyone in any field. And having strong negotiation skills can make all the difference between getting what you want and getting nowhere. Mastering the essential negotiation skills mentioned above—being prepared, being adept at active listening, communicating effectively, being adaptable, and maintaining emotional control—will give you an edge and can increase your chances of achieving successful outcomes in negotiations.
