You’re considering a career in negotiation. What are the benefits of being adaptable?

1 Adaptability boosts your performance

Being adaptable means you can adjust your strategy, style, and tactics according to the context and the parties involved. This allows you to respond effectively to changing circumstances, unexpected challenges, and diverse preferences. For example, you might need to switch from a competitive to a collaborative mode if you face a deadlock or a new opportunity. Or you might need to adapt your communication style to match the personality, culture, or mood of your counterpart. By being adaptable, you can improve your outcomes, build rapport, and avoid conflicts.

2 Adaptability enhances your learning

Being adaptable also means you are open to feedback, new ideas, and different perspectives. This helps you learn from your experiences, mistakes, and successes. You can use your reflection and evaluation skills to identify what worked and what didn't, and how you can improve your negotiation skills. You can also learn from other negotiators, mentors, and experts by observing, asking questions, and seeking advice. By being adaptable, you can expand your knowledge, skills, and confidence.

3 Adaptability increases your opportunities

Being adaptable also means you are willing to explore new possibilities, challenges, and roles. This helps you grow your network, reputation, and career prospects. You can seek out and create opportunities to negotiate in different settings, industries, and domains. You can also showcase your negotiation skills in various projects, tasks, and responsibilities. By being adaptable, you can demonstrate your value, potential, and versatility.

4 How to develop adaptability

Adaptability is not something you just have or don't have; it's a skill that can be developed and improved with practice, feedback, and reflection. To become more adaptable as a negotiator, try preparing for different scenarios and contingencies ahead of time. Research the context, the parties, and the issues. Anticipate the challenges, opportunities, and objections that could arise. Plan your goals, strategy, and alternatives, but be ready to adjust them if needed. Observe and listen actively to the verbal and non-verbal cues of your counterpart. Try to understand their interests, needs, and concerns. Ask open-ended questions and paraphrase their statements to clarify and confirm your understanding. Be flexible and creative in exploring different options that can satisfy both parties. Use brainstorming, problem-solving, and integrative techniques to generate ideas. Be open to compromise when necessary. After each negotiation, seek feedback from your counterpart or mentors. Reflect on what went well and what could be improved. Identify your strengths and weaknesses, set goals for improvement, and apply your learning to future negotiations. Becoming adaptable is essential for a successful career in negotiation; it can help you perform better, learn faster, and grow more.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?