Negotiating is a part of everyday life, but in business, it's absolutely critical to your success. While most negotiating strategies seem like common sense, it's not uncommon for people to get caught up in the emotion of the moment and ignore their basic instincts. Emotion, luck, and magic have no place in a successful negotiation. It takes an iron gut, homework, street smarts and unblinking discipline. These keys will unlock your ability to get the best deal possible under any circumstances.
While experienced negotiators sometimes refer to their methods as the negotiating game, it's real and should be realistic. Check your ego at the door and keep your eye on the big picture at all times. This is all about negotiating with so you can capitalize on your strengths and the party's weaknesses. If the other party is very experienced, they also have a history that could contain useful information. If you've negotiated with this person before, if you know they are a buyer, make sure you are thoroughly familiar with the product or service that will be the subject of the negotiation. Most negotiators have price targets or goals in mind before they begin. The constraints that will undoubtedly surface may include unforeseen actions by either party. While your ultimate goal is to discover that your agreement must be approved by someone higher in the chain of command.
