Negotiation is a process

Negotiation is a process of communicating with others to find an outcome that works for both parties. The reasons to negotiate are not always clear, but it can be done when you have two or more parties who want different things. Negotiations might involve a group of people, such as a family or a business team. They may occur in person, over the phone, through email, text, and other media forms. There are several ways to prepare for negotiation so you can get the best result possible!

Negotiations are often about compromise. You likely won't come out with everything you desired, but common ground can be found.

"We have a deal,"?Biden said, harking back to his days as a wheeler-dealer in the Senate. "I think it's really important we've all agreed that none of us got all that we wanted."

##How to Negotiate

Before embarking on any negotiation, you should take some time to prepare. Preparation is the key to success. You don't want to get duped on the day and forget something important you want or need from the outcome.

##Be Prepared

Begin by thinking about what you really need and prioritise those needs. What are your sticking points (red lines), and where you can be flexible? Then anticipate what others might want from the negotiations. What can you offer in return?

You need to be clear in your expectations, so ensure you have an overall plan of action prior to the negotiation. This should establish your goals, any rules or limitations to follow, timeframes and be realistic. For example, if this is a business deal, do not promise something that cannot be delivered upon.

If you do not know the person, consider what approach they might take? What are their needs and priorities? Think about how they may act in certain situations; this will help to prepare for any scenarios that might arise during negotiations. Be aware of body language signals (i.e., fidgeting) as these could indicate discomfort.

Above all, be open to clarify with others what you want and identify their needs. There should be no hidden agendas – that way lie dragons.

##Be Clear

Once in the negotiation, be open and honest and clear about your expectations. Ensure you listen to the other parties involved to hear their requirements. Clarify what you want and why - it is essential to be clear so as not to waste time.

Have a cut-off time. This ensures negotiations don't run on into the night and helps keep all parties focused on the outcome. Ask questions of the other parties to ensure you fully understand their needs and requirements.

Negotiate in good faith, but ensure any outcomes are documented and signed off. This prevents anyone from changing their mind later down the road or saying there was a misunderstanding.

##What Can Go Wrong?

Nobody wants to walk away from a negotiation feeling as though none of their needs have been met. If the other parties seem unwilling to negotiate or make unreasonable demands, this may be a sign. It is important not to feel forced into an outcome that doesn't work for you and walk away if necessary as a last resort.

Painful negotiation can also come down to miscommunication - misunderstandings are common in negotiations as there's usually more than one way of interpreting something. This is why preparation and clarity are key. Challenge the assumptions of your opponents.

Ensure that you ask enough questions to gauge the true intent of the other parties. This will help to flush out any lies or hidden agendas. Above all, stay true to yourself. Don't engage in tit for tat games with opponents; this never ends well.

Ultimately negotiations can be complex and lengthy. All parties wish to get most of their needs and wants met. Below are some top tips to help you during the negotiation process.

• Smiling is powerful and a great influencer
• Keep your Needs and Wants separate
• Be prepared to walk out, but only as a last resort
• Use an afterthought as a lever
• Avoid trying to get your own back
• Watch out for Mr./Ms nice guy
• If you grant a concession, ask for an even bigger one in return
• Know when to play your trump card

I hope this comes in handy next time you encounter a negotiation process. Can you add any tips or tactics to this list?