In order to negotiate a successful deal, it requires a well-crafted argument, solid customer motivation, and practical solutions. However, even if all of these elements are present the deal can fall apart if negotiation leadership and teamwork are absent. The most effective tool you have when it comes to negotiating is your team. There is a widespread belief regarding “strength in numbers,” which suggests that the more players you have on your team the better off you will be. There are several benefits to taking a team approach to negotiating and these teamwork principles can help you achieve the outcomes you desire.
As you prepare to negotiate a big deal, it is important to assess the purpose of the negotiation by brainstorming a list of issues you would like to discuss. It can be helpful to do this with a team, so you can have input from various people involved in the deal. It’s a great way to collaborate and prioritize issues and consider potential tradeoffs. Together, you can write down the issues that are most important to you and which concessions you would be willing to make. It is equally important to consider the other side. What is motivating them? What are their needs? What are their pressure points? This is where a team can be extremely helpful. You can use the team’s knowledge and expertise to estimate the priorities of the other side, which can help offer some direction for the negotiation.
A team approach can also be helpful when searching for possible solutions for the negotiation. This is because your team has a diverse set of skills and you can utilize the strengths and skills of each team member. Together, you can offer ideas and suggestions for possible solutions that will help you reach a win/win outcome.
Anytime you are entering into a negotiation, it is to your benefit to have multiple options available for your counterpart. The more solutions you offer, the more likely you will be able to close the deal. You need to take advantage of the knowledge and skills of your team members to come up with various solutions. Working as a team can be especially beneficial when dealing with a complex negotiation that requires a diverse set of skills and expertise. By requesting different solutions from your team members, you will have sufficient information and ideas that can be used to achieve optimal solutions.