10 Most Effective Business Negotiation Tips

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Did you know that everything is negotiable in business and in life? This is true about negotiations in all aspects of your world today. It pays to negotiate, debate, and even argue to ensure you are getting the best terms at all times. 

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But this past year only 30% of workers negotiated their salary with their employers. Most entrepreneurs don't negotiate their prices and rates with customers or clients. Many people are hesitant to negotiate, not because they don't think they are worth it or deserve more, but because they don't know where to start. If this sounds like you, you have come to the right place to improve your arguments, debates, and points.

Read on for 10 top negotiation tips that will help you get what you want in any situation. Whether you are trying to get a lower insurance premium or a raise at work, these ten effective negotiating strategies can work for you. 

10 Top Ways To Improve Your Negotiating Skills


1. Approach With Positivity

Some people assume that to be a good negotiator, they have to go into every conversation with guns blazing. In reality, though, you are more likely to get what you want if you remain calm and approach the situation from a positive place.

Instead of getting on the phone riled up and ready to yell about your increasing cable price, try starting the conversation in a polite, courteous way. The person on the other end will already be in a better state of mind and more inclined to assist you. That is how you negotiate to dominate!


2. Do Your Research

It is always helpful if you go into a negotiation feeling prepared. Do some research before you enter the meeting or get on the phone. Look up what other people in your position are earning or find comparable insurance rates from other companies in your area.

If you have this information readily available, it will be easier for you to make a strong case for yourself. Jot down notes beforehand so you don't forget any important details. Practice your negotiations ahead of time if you can as well for a higher chance of success. Negotiating can be nasty so you need to be prepared for any question, counterpoint, or even insult during your quest to argue your case.


3. Know What You Want

Have a clear goal for yourself when you begin negotiating, too. Know what kind of salary you want to earn or what you want to pay for your cable.

This will help you to be decisive and confident. It will save you from getting a "deer in the headlights" look, too, when the person working with you asks you what you would like to earn or what it will take to get you to stay with their company. It pays to know your numbers when negotiating!


4. Listen More Than You Talk

Are you a nervous talker? Do you tend to chatter during stressful situations, such as negotiations? If so, this negotiation tip is for you.

Make an effort to listen to the person on the other end of the conversation more than you talk to them. Ask open-ended questions to keep them talking, too. This helps you learn what they're looking for, and it will help them to feel respected.


5. Be Willing to Walk Away

Never start a negotiation without options. You need to be willing to walk away if necessary.

If you are counting on this job or you are in desperate need of a lower interest rate, the person with whom you are negotiating already has all the power. You need to have a backup plan in place or another option that you can pursue instead. This helps to give you leverage and makes you more valuable to the other person. 

Desperation is obvious, so you must be willing to walk way to win the negotiations.


6. Don't Rush

Remember that negotiations can take a long time. Don't go in expecting the other negotiator to give you what you want right away without first putting up a fight.

It might take hours or even multiple conversations over several days for you to get an outcome that works for you and the other party. Be patient, though, and trust that you deserve what you are trying to get from them. If you don't rush them, you will have a greater chance of seeing a positive outcome.


7. Show Them What You Have to Offer

Be clear about what you are bringing to the table, too. This is especially important during salary negotiations. If you want a higher salary, you need to show your employer what benefits you provide to the company.

Come in with concrete details regarding the ways you have helped the company to grow and the value you provide. The more specific you can be, the better.

Don't be wishy-washy, either. Know your worth and value and stand by it. If you don't believe in yourself, why should your boss give you a raise?


8. Always Tie a String

Sometimes, during a negotiation, you will have to make compromises. Before you give anything away, though, make sure you are getting something in return. In other words, make sure there are always strings attached.

If you can't get the lowest price possible for your cable bill, consider accepting a slightly higher rate. Make sure they throw something in to sweeten the deal, though, such as additional channels. 


9. Don't Fear Silence

If you already identified yourself as a nervous talker, this tip will also work in your favor. In addition to listening more than you talk, don't be afraid of silence and gaps in the conversation. Instead, use them to your advantage.

If you are quiet and pause for a moment after you receive an offer, the person with whom you are negotiating has time to second-guess themselves. They might hear that the offer is not ideal and be more willing to give you something better, all because you paused before responding.


10. Don't Take It Personally

It doesn't matter if you are trying to get a quote for a lower insurance premium or want a higher salary. In any situation, remember not the take the other person's behavior personally.

If you get offended or emotional based on the way they are acting or something they say, you will have a harder time implementing these other negotiation strategies. You will also be less likely to get the kind of outcome you are wanting. It pays to develop a thick skin during discussions, debates, and decision-making.


Try These Negotiation Tips Today

You might have thought that you don't have what it takes to be a good negotiator. For many people, though, it just takes the right advice and a bit of practice. Next time the negotiations will go differently!

The next time you find yourself in a negotiation situation, put these 10 negotiation tips to the test. They will help you speak with confidence and get what you want out of the exchange.

If you have been negotiating to try and save money, do you want to learn more tricks you can use to lower your bills and keep more in your bank account? If so, check out the rest of our website today for more advice. And always remember, everything is negotiable! It is time to negotiate now.

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