9 Good Negotiation Tips All Women Should Know

By Martin P S Collins


Try: Rather than looking for opportunities to negotiate, most women often simply accept things as they are. When it comes to business, you should consider that almost everything is negotiable - you only have to go and try. Most negotiation tactics can be easily learned.

Be prepared: When you prepare yourself, you are much more likely to be confident and convincing. You should take your time to review costs, trends, statistics, or whatever else you need to look into before stepping in the door. This is quite useful in salary negotiations as well.

Consider your body language: Your words may be saying one thing, but your body language could just be saying something in the other direction. Your ability to keep direct contact with your eyes will give an indication of your level of engagement and focus. You should sit up and a maintain body language that shows that you have confidence and that you should be taken seriously.

Don't be taken over by your emotions: Women are much more emotional than men by nature. Dirty negotiation tricks or bargaining tactics by your negotiation partner can easily bring out emotions such as anger, frustration, unhappiness, or even disbelief, and it's key to stay calm and learn to set these feelings aside. If you have to, ask for a quick break so you can re-compose yourself.

Expect and pre-empt criticism: When you negotiate a higher position or salary, it's quite likely that criticism will come your way. Comments regarding your tardiness, working hours or even ethics could come up. You should anticipate these comments and formulate your responses ahead of time. What you don't want is to come up with the perfect answer as you're driving home.

Learn to say "no": Women don't like conflict and try to keep everyone happy. However, being liked shouldn't be your main concern in a negotiation. It's a good negotiation skill to know when to put your foot down and say "no".

Know when to stay quiet: One of the most effective negotiation techniques is to remain quiet in two situations: After you make your offer, and after your counterpart answers. You should not even attempt to soften the blow or take back your position once you have said it.

Know how much you're worth: Many women unfortunately undervalue themselves very often. In salary negotiations, pre-determine how much you truly deserve, irrespective of whether you are an employee, contractor, or a supplier. If you are genuinely valued, they are likely to take you up on your offer. If they don't, say "thank you", walk away, and find someone who appreciates you better!

Don't change who you are: A good negotiation tip is to avoid the trap of trying on all sorts of bargaining styles that you are not comfortable with. When you merely put on an act, especially when you haggle price, you will be found out all too quickly. If you want to be successful in negotiations, remain true to your values.




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