Negotiation is not just for boardrooms and big business deals. Whether you are haggling over a deadline with a colleague, securing a discount on your new car, or trying to get your family to agree on a takeaway, negotiation and influencing skills are woven into our daily lives. The good news? With a few practical tips, anyone can boost their confidence and get better results—without feeling awkward, pushy, or out of their depth. Let us dive into some fun, down-to-earth tips that will help you become a savvy negotiator who gets things done.
Know What You Want (and What You Can Live Without)
Before you step into any negotiation, whether it is for a pay rise, a project deadline, or a better deal at the shops, make sure you are clear about your ideal outcome and your non-negotiables. What are you hoping to achieve? What would you be happy to compromise on? Creating a simple list of your must-haves and nice-to-haves stops you from agreeing too quickly or giving away something vital. For example, if you are negotiating a project deadline, your must-have might be enough time for quality work, while your nice-to-have could be a few extra days for a more relaxed pace. When you know your priorities, you negotiate with confidence and clarity.
Do Your Homework: Knowledge is Power
Ever tried to wing it in a negotiation and ended up regretting it? You are not alone! A bit of preparation goes a long way. Research what is important to the other side, what alternatives they might have, and the industry norms. For example, if you are negotiating with a supplier, find out what competitors are offering. If you are asking for a pay rise, check industry salary benchmarks. The more facts you have, the stronger your position, and the more persuasive you will sound. No need for a spreadsheet—just a few notes or a quick online search can do the trick.
Build Rapport: People Say Yes to People They Like
Negotiation is not just about facts and figures—it is about people. Take a moment to build rapport before diving into the details. A bit of friendly chat about the weather, last night’s football, or a shared interest can break the ice and make everyone feel more at ease. Listen actively, nod, and show you value their perspective. When people feel respected and understood, they are much more likely to meet you in the middle. Remember, a relaxed atmosphere can turn a tense negotiation into a positive collaboration.
Ask Great Questions (and Really Listen to the Answers)
Questions are your superpower in any negotiation. Instead of jumping in with demands, ask open questions like, What would make this work for you? or Can you tell me more about your priorities? This encourages the other side to open up, which helps you discover solutions that work for everyone. Listen carefully to what is said—and what is not said. Sometimes, the real sticking points are hidden between the lines. If you listen well, you will spot opportunities to create win-win deals rather than deadlock.
Stay Calm and Keep It Light
It is easy to get flustered if things get heated or if someone pushes back. The trick is to keep your cool and not take things personally. If you feel the tension rising, take a slow breath, smile, and even crack a gentle joke if it feels right. Keeping things light helps everyone relax and keeps the conversation moving. Remember, negotiation is a process, not a battle. If you need a moment, do not be afraid to ask for a quick break to gather your thoughts. You will come back with a fresh perspective—and maybe even a better idea!
Know When (and How) to Walk Away
Sometimes, the best deal is no deal at all. If what is on the table does not meet your must-haves, or if the terms are not right, it is okay to walk away. This is not failure—it is smart negotiating! Before you go into any negotiation, decide on your absolute bottom line. If you can not get what you need, politely explain your reasons and leave the door open for a future chat. Often, your willingness to walk away is what brings the other side back with a better offer. Be friendly, be firm, and remember—there are always more opportunities ahead!
Ready to Level Up Your Negotiation and Influencing Skills?
Negotiation is an everyday skill that anyone can master with a bit of practice and the right tools. If you are ready to boost your confidence, handle tricky conversations, and get the outcomes you want, our lively and practical Negotiation and Influencing Skills Training Course is packed with strategies, real-world practice, and plenty of fun. Join us online or in-person and start getting better results today!
