One of the significant differences between our most effective leaders, and the rest – of – the – pack, is, often, based on, not merely whether they have quality objectives, but, whether they have the aptitude, positive, can – do, attitude, and skill – set, to achieve them, in the best possible manner. In order to do so, they must not, merely claim, to be, negotiators, but, rather, must, also, get those necessities, achieved, and DONE! With that in mind, this article will attempt to briefly examine, consider, and discuss, using the mnemonic approach, some of what this means, requires, and represents.
1. Delve deeply; deliver; decide: How show one’s negotiating skills, and focus, decide, how to proceed, what to seek, and how to pursue the necessary priorities, and objectives? To do so, it is essential to go, beyond, the surface, and delve deeply into many aspects of the past/ heritage/ history/ mission, present obstacles, constituents’ perceptions, and the best way, to proceed, into the future, in a relevant, sustainable manner! Too many pseudo – leaders, talk – the – talk, but fail to, walk – the – walk, and, unless/ until, an individual leader develops the negotiating skills and abilities, to effectively, consistently, deliver on his promises, he won’t make the necessary, positive difference, for the future!
2. Open – mind; options; objectives; opportunities: If you want to negotiate effectively, you must proceed, with an open – mind, and get to understand, your options and alternatives, and, thus, to achieve your objectives! Often, the most effective negotiations, are based, on whether one, is prepared to recognize opportunities, and take advantage of them, in a win – win, manner!
3. Needs: Before entering into any negotiations, it’s important, and essential, to clearly understand, the true needs, of the specific group, you represent and serve! This permits someone, to effectively prioritize, and differentiate between, mere, wishes, and actual priorities, and musts!
4. Empathy; emphasis; excellence; enrich: Be careful to be prepared, before beginning this process! Listen effectively, and learn from every conversation, and experience, in order to proceed, with the utmost degree of genuine empathy, both for your group’s best interests, but also, better understanding, what your negotiating adversary seeks! This will direct you, to place your emphasis, where it’s best – directed, and provide the quality, and excellence, which will enhance your organization. Shouldn’t the goal and priority of any negotiations, be, to enrich your group and stakeholders?
Don’t merely negotiate, but focus on getting your objectives achieved, and DONE! Are you the best person, for this responsibility?