Becoming a Master Negotiator

I’ve seen software engineers and business leaders clash because they speak different languages.

One talks in lines of code, the other in profit margins.

My job is to bridge that gap. It’s like being a translator at the United Nations—except the fate of a big project hangs in the balance.

I’ve often had to negotiate between a dev who says, “This feature takes at least three months,” and a VP who wants it in three weeks.

Instead of simply saying “no” to the VP, I break down the work in stages and show what can be done sooner.

Then, I look for ways the dev team can optimize.

We might scale back on extra features or focus on the must-haves first.

Negotiation isn’t about winning at someone else’s expense.

It’s about finding a path that respects everyone’s goals.

When you do it right, both sides walk away feeling heard.

And your project moves forward with less friction.

Pick one tough negotiation point in your project.

Sit down with both sides and invite them to share their biggest concerns.

Then, find one compromise that makes sense for everyone.

Watch how trust builds when people feel respected.