Whether you’re in the drafting stage or working through disputes, negotiations are bound to play a role when it comes to contracts. Being able to negotiate is a very important skill, and for some people, this skill can be difficult to develop. Fortunately, Business Insider offers the following tips so you can be a better negotiator.
Be prepared
If you lack confidence in your negotiation skills, being prepared is key. With the right preparation, you can go into a meeting anticipating tough questions, while also possessing the knowledge to answer them sufficiently. Being prepared also helps you act on reason and logic instead of emotion. It’s common to get flustered during heated negotiations, and being prepared will help you get back on track.
Don’t be shy about asking for what you want
You’ll probably go into the meeting with a good idea of what you want. Don’t deviate from this desire, even if the other party asks for something completely different first. Giving up your goal leaves you at a disadvantage since you’ll be stuck negotiating the other party’s offer. Also, you might lack leverage if you immediately defer to another person’s needs.
Maintain a positive attitude
It’s natural for a negotiation to cause a bit of stress. However, going into the process with a negative attitude will make you less likely to get what you’re asking for. Remind yourself that you deserve to meet your goal and that you possess the proper qualities for success. Confidence can go a long way in business, and the other person involved in the negotiation is bound to be impressed by a can-do attitude.
