The Australian - ‘Deal or No Deal’
Mastering Negotiation Skills: A Lifelong Journey
This article has been written based on an original article Noa Sheer wrote for The Australian’s Last Page.
Negotiation is an integral part of our daily lives, from business deals to personal interactions. The question of whether great negotiators are born or made has long been debated. However, it's clear from various studies that negotiation skills are primarily learned through experience and practice. In this blog post, we will explore essential negotiation skills, effective learning methods, and the importance of continuous improvement.
Read The Article on The Australian
“Self awareness, planning and strategic
communication have been found to be the central skills required for negotiation success.”
The Australian Article - “Deal or No Deal”
Negotiation Skills: Are They Inherent or Acquired?
Many believe that negotiation skills are innate. However, research shows that they are developed over time. For instance, think of a baby who starts with simple tactics, like crying to express needs. As they grow, they learn to adapt, using a smile or gestures to achieve their goals. Just as a child evolves in their ability to negotiate, adults must also learn and refine their strategies for effective deal-making throughout their lives.
3 Key Skills for Negotiation Success
To become an effective negotiator, you must cultivate specific core skills. According to experts, the following are essential for successful negotiations:
Self-Awareness: Understanding your strengths and weaknesses allows you to approach negotiations with confidence and clarity.
Planning: A well-thought-out plan can help you prepare for various scenarios and outcomes, leading to more successful negotiations.
Strategic Communication: Articulating your thoughts clearly and effectively is crucial for conveying your position and persuading others.
3 Tips to Learn Negotiation Skills Effectively
While many people believe they can learn negotiation skills through traditional methods like reading books or attending lectures, these approaches may not provide lasting results. Instead, consider the following strategies:
Experiential Learning: Engage in hands-on practice of negotiation techniques. This could involve role-playing situations, participating in workshops, or real-world negotiations.
Reflection and Feedback: After practicing new techniques, take the time to reflect on your experiences. Seek feedback from mentors or peers to identify areas for improvement.
Continuous Learning: Just as a baby doesn't rely solely on a smile, don’t settle for negotiation skills that were once sufficient. Keep seeking opportunities to grow and refine your techniques.
The Role of Personality in Negotiation
It’s a common misconception that a person’s personality dictates their success in negotiations. However, research indicates that personality traits have little impact on negotiation outcomes. Instead, the skills you choose to deploy during negotiations are what truly determine your success.
Conclusion: Embrace the Journey of Learning
Negotiating is both an art and a science. While there are evidence-based methods to enhance your skills, creativity and style come with experience and reflection. You owe it to yourself to continually develop your negotiation abilities. So, embrace the journey of learning and refine your skills for better deal-making.
Noa Sheer, a negotiation expert and lecturer at UNSW School of Management, reminds us that we can always improve. Don't rely on outdated tactics—invest in skill development and watch your negotiating prowess grow.
Are you ready to take your negotiation skills to the next level? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let’s start the conversation about mastering the art of negotiation!