What Kids Can Teach You About Sales Negotiations

As parents, we say: "It is time to go home." "It is time for bed." "Finish your dinner." "Turn off the TV."
But our kids often have very different ideas.

They have predictable replies such as: “I want to stay at the beach.” “Can’t I stay up a little bit longer?” "But I am full." “In a second.” And the flat out "No!"

Here are some parent negotiation tips that apply directly to sales negotiations:

1. Soften Your Demands. Understand that statements such as “Go to bed” invite disagreement. Phrase your requests so that it is easier to receive a "Yes." For example, “Would you like to watch TV tonight or have time to read?” Good sales negotiators understand that they must present mutually beneficial options to move the deal forward.
   
   
2. Do Not Lose Your Cool. If your child’s behavior is making your blood boil, stay calm. Situations are rarely resolved well when one party gets emotional or takes things personally. Try to put yourself in the other person’s shoes. Empathy is a powerful negotiation tool because it creates a deeper understanding and opens up alternatives.
   
   
3. Pick Your Battles. Being open to negotiate does not mean that you are giving in. Negotiating is not about “winners and losers.” It is about finding a mutually beneficial solution. Make sure that you get what is most important to you and let the other interests, positions, terms, and conditions go.