Wednesday, November 20, 2013

9 Good Negotiation Skills All Women Should Have

By Martin P S Collins


Try: Rather than looking for opportunities to negotiate, most women often simply accept things as they are. When it comes to business, you should consider that almost everything is negotiable - you only have to go and try. Most negotiation tactics can be easily learned.

Prepare yourself: When you come prepared, you're likely to be more confident and more convincing. Take the time to review your costs, trends, statistics, or whatever other details you need to familiarize yourself with before stepping in the door. This is especially relevant in salary negotiation.

Watch your body language: Your words may be saying one thing, but your body language may just be saying something completely different. Your ability to keep direct eye contact will reflect your current level of engagement and focus. Sit up and maintain body language that shows that you are confident and that you need to be taken seriously.

Don't let your emotions take over: Women, by nature, are much more emotional than men. Dirty negotiation tricks or bargaining tactics by your negotiation partner can unleash emotions such as anger, unhappiness, frustration, even disbelief, and it's crucial that you stay calm and learn to set these feelings aside. If you need to, request for a quick break so you can regain your composure.

Expect and master criticism: If you're negotiating for a higher salary or position, it's highly possible that criticism may come your way. Issues regarding your tardiness, short work hours or even work ethic may come up, and so you should anticipate these scenarios and formulate your responses ahead of time. The last thing you want is to come up with the perfect answer as you're driving home.

Learn to say "no": Most women like to avoid situations of conflict and to keep everybody happy. Having said this, being liked must not be your main concern in a negotiation situation. It's a good negotiation skill to know how and when to put your foot down and say "no".

Know when to keep quiet: One of the most effective negotiation techniques is to keep quiet at two points: After you make your request, and after your counterpart answers. Do not even attempt to soften the blow or take back your request after you've already asked for it.

Determine your worth: Women tend to underestimate themselves in the workplace. If you're dealing with salary negotiation, find out how much you truly deserve for all your efforts and hard work, whether as an employee, supplier, or contractor. If they truly value you, they will quite likely take you up on your offer. If they say no, thank them politely, walk away, and try to find someone who appreciates how much you're worth.

Stick to who you are: A good negotiation tip is to avoid choosing a bargaining style that makes you feel uncomfortable. If you're merely putting on an act, especially when you haggle price, people may just see right through it and all is lost. If you want to be successful at any form of negotiation, it's important to be true to who you are.




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