First of All, Sort Out Your Assets to Improve the Efficiency of Negotiations
When you need to agree on something, chances are you look at what you want and what the other party is asking for. Instead, focus on what you have to get the best leverage on the trade.
As the business blog Entrepreneur explains, all negotiation is leverage. And your leverage is determined by what you offer. For example, if you want to buy a car but you have no money, you have no leverage at all. If you can pay cash up front, you have the leverage to get a better deal. Therefore, before discussing anything, start by identifying what you have:
It is imperative that you have a clear idea of where you have leverage and where you don’t. Evaluate your position to determine which side is more in need or wants, and which is of greater value in certain areas. If the opposing party needs something that only you own, you can use leverage to get the best prices.
This can extend to any area of your life where your will meets someone else’s. Asking for a raise, doing a project, or just bargaining at a flea market – it all comes down to what you have to offer. So instead of letting the other side set conditions, explore what you can offer to change their stance.
Master the Concept of Leverage to Get What You Want in Business and Life | Businessman