14 Sep Not What You Deserve

Hello,

“You don’t get what you deserve; you get what you negotiate.”

This thought-provoking quote comes from Chester L. Karrass and emphasizes how vital negotiation skills are for anyone in business, and especially for women who may face additional barriers.

Why Is Negotiation So Important?

First of all, negotiation is the lifeblood of any business. It’s the mechanism that turns prospects into clients, and one-time deals into long-lasting partnerships.

Being good at negotiation means you’re good at communicating, understanding needs, and finding a middle ground. These are foundational skills for any entrepreneur aiming to build a robust and sustainable business.

Secondly, negotiation is not just for your professional life; it’s a vital skill for personal situations as well. Whether you’re buying a car, settling disputes, or even planning a family vacation, the ability to negotiate effectively can save you time, money, and stress. When you know how to negotiate well, you gain the flexibility to shape your life in ways that benefit you and those around you.

Lastly, for my fellow women entrepreneurs, negotiation holds a special significance.

The truth is, societal norms and gender biases often create additional hurdles for women in business settings.

But armed with excellent negotiation skills, you can level the playing field.

The ability to negotiate effectively can serve as your greatest asset, ensuring you receive the respect, opportunities, and financial rewards that you deserve.

Tips for Women Entrepreneurs

As I mentioned earlier women often underestimate their ability to negotiate effectively.

But you don’t have to!

Research shows that women excel at listening and problem-solving, which are key skills in any negotiation setting.

The point is to be confident, assertive, and never downplay the value you bring to the table.

Things to Watch Out For

1. Don’t Be Overly Agreeable: It’s good to maintain a positive atmosphere, but not at the expense of your objectives.
2. Always Do Your Research: Know who you’re negotiating with and what they want.
3. Recognize When to Stop: Not all deals are worth making. If it’s not right, it’s OK to walk away.
4. Consider the Best Outcomes: it’s always good to consider both sides of the agreement. Can you compromise and ultimately still get what you want?

Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been in the game for a while, sharpening your negotiation skills is never a bad idea.

Negotiation is an important skill for everyone, and with practice, you can become better at it!

What was the best negotiation agreement you’ve ever completed?

I’d love to hear from you!

Wishing you all the best in your next negotiations!