A good negotiator is not made overnight. Even the most seasoned negotiator can benefit from negotiation training. Just as you might plan to run a marathon, or hope to grow a bountiful garden, acquiring and maintaining finely tuned negotiation skills requires regular attention. Seventeen Camels believes everyday negotiators fare much better than those who expect to pull their knowledge off the shelf in a moment of urgent need.

The good news is, techniques that build negotiation skills are available to anyone.

Did you know that 80% of your effort toward successful negotiations should happen before you start bargaining? An easy way to start thinking like an everyday negotiator is to start applying the three Ps:

Prepare. Consider your goals and what you want from your negotiation. Seventeen Camels works with clients to make detailed negotiation maps for all areas of their life, noting where aspects converge and where opportunities exist. Make a list of what you want from your career, relationships and personal achievements so you can make sure your negotiation goals align with what matters to you most.
Practice. Ask a trusted friend or mentor to take part in a mock negotiation with you before your next significant negotiation. Whether you are asking for a promotion or dealing with a sensitive personal request, practice your approach, and your response hearing ‘no’. In our training sessions we find this practice uncovers strengths and weaknesses of positioning, and promotes curiosity – all necessary precursors for successful negotiations.
Participate. Take note of everyday negotiations happening around you and engage when you have the opportunity. A simple, “Is that your best price?” may feel uncomfortable at first, but with regular practice becomes second nature. Participate with a curious and open mind to find out what may be available to you.

You will be better equipped to succeed in your next negotiations when you define your negotiation approach before you start.