Win-win Strategies

January 28, 2021

When one thinks of negotiating, the word “compromise” comes to mind, and most of us typically do not want to make large compromises. If you are someone who likes getting their way (because let’s face it, who doesn’t?), there is a negotiation process called win-win negotiating which involves both parties walking away with their desired outcome. To be more specific, win-win negotiating is a negotiation which involves each party walking away from the bargaining table with an outcome that satisfies all parties. Often the best approach is to ask yourself a simple question: How can I help the other party meet their needs?

The question now is, how do you ensure a win-win negotiation? You implement win-win strategies!

Win-win strategies are designed to increase your opponent’s satisfaction even as you achieve the outcome you desire. These strategies can be particularly useful when you are faced with unfavourable odds or powerful opponents.

Some examples of win-win strategies include:

Manage the expectations of your opponent prior to and during the negotiation;
Avoid making concessions too early in the negotiation to avoid increasing your opponents’ expectations;
Ensure your opponent perceives their outcome as beneficial by being modest about your gains from the deal, and always compliment your opponent for their hard bargaining;
Make sure that you give your opponent a voice in the decision process to ensure that you are acknowledging their perspective;
Invite your opponent to share their views or suggest alternatives; and
Enhance the perception of fairness after an outcome has been decided by providing detailed explanations for unappealing actions or outcomes.

If you need assistance with a negotiation or would like us to negotiate on your behalf, please contact our team at Chris Sheath & Associates by phoning 07 4638 5541 for further information.

Sources: The Program of Negotiation 2021, Win-win Negotiations, Massachusetts, viewed 20 January 2021, https://www.pon.harvard.edu/category/daily/win-win-daily/.

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