Getting The Best Possible Deal In The Best Possible Way

Negotiation is part of everyday life and is especially important when preparing yourself for your chosen profession!

What is negotiation?

Negotiation can be described as: ‘A dialogue between two or more parties, with the intent of coming to a mutually agreed solution while avoiding argument and dispute’.

During any negotiation, individuals aim to achieve the best possible outcome for their position (or perhaps a business they represent). Remember, negotiation is not about arguing it is about the principles of fairness, seeking mutual benefit and maintaining a relationship – here lies the key to a successful outcome.

Do you need to negotiate as a student?

Yes. Negotiation is part of everyday life and is especially important when preparing yourself for your chosen profession. You may find yourself negotiating in any situation from group lectures, tutor meetings or your life outside the classroom.

What makes a great negotiator?

• React sensibly and listen carefully
• Have patience and be polite
• Approach the situation with confidence
• Be dignified, it is a discussion not a battle field.

Most negotiations are characterised by four phases:

1. 1. Preparation phase
2. 2. Opening phase
3. 3. Bargaining phase
4. 4. Closing phase

Overall

Practising negotiation is vital to ensure you begin to prepare yourself for the work place. Although the stereotypical view of negotiation is of a seller and buyer battling over a price, negotiation can actually be a lot more subtle than that. Think about how you would negotiate with a fellow student who wasn’t working well in a team and was asking you to take on too much responsibility. This is also a form of negotiation. Negotiation is essentially about great communication. BPP University is the University for The Professions and will give you the skills you need to succeed. Find out more about our programmes and apply today! http://www.bpp.com/bpp-university/home