Don’t Let a Negotiation Ruin Your Relationship

Forgoing Your Own Needs Is A Mistake

It can be tough to press for your own interests in an important relationship – especially if you’re dealing with an important customer. Here are three ways to negotiate without awkwardness:

• Deal with the relationship head on. Separate your relationship from the essence of what's being discussed. Emphasize that the relationship is important to you, but then agree to set it aside. If you don’t, it will be difficult to tackle specific terms, conditions, or concerns.
• Don’t let it become leverage. "If you were a good partner, you'd agree with me,” is not an effective strategy for either you or your interlocutor. Bring the discussion back to the specific issue at hand.
• Don’t cave. Instead of appeasing your counterpart to spare hard feelings, work with him or her. Be respectful, well prepared, and listen. Being trustworthy and constructive will actually make your relationship stronger.

Read the full article at: http://hbr.org/tip/2014/06/10/dont-let-a-negotiation-ruin-your-relationship

Patty Block, President and Founder of The Block Group, established her company to advocate for women-owned businesses, helping them position their companies for strategic growth. Charting the course for impactful, sustainable, profitable businesses, the beacon is control: of your strategic direction, your money, your time, your staffing, and your ability to bring in business. The Block Group brings together the people, resources and ideas that build results.

Business management consultant.

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