Negotiating - 30 - English at Work negotiates the best deal

Introduction

Negotiating effectively is a crucial skill in any business setting. This tutorial will guide you through the essential steps to negotiate successfully, as demonstrated in the BBC Learning English video. You will learn key phrases and strategies that can help you secure better deals and enhance your communication skills in negotiations.

Step 1: Prepare for the Negotiation

• Research the company and understand their needs and budget.
• Know your product or service well, including its value proposition.
• Determine your minimum acceptable price before starting the conversation.
• Prepare a list of potential questions to ask the other party.

Step 2: Initiate the Conversation

• Start by asking, "What kind of price are you willing to pay?"
• Listen carefully to their response to gauge their expectations.
• Maintain a friendly and professional tone throughout the conversation.

Step 3: Respond to Price Objections

• If they say your prices are too high, respond with, "I don't think we can go that low."
• This shows that you are firm on your pricing while remaining open to dialogue.

Step 4: Offer Alternatives

• Suggest, "If you buy more stock, I can offer you a bigger discount."
• This encourages the other party to consider placing a larger order, which can benefit both sides.

Step 5: Propose Compromises

• If an agreement cannot be reached, suggest, "I'll meet you halfway."
• This indicates a willingness to compromise and keeps the conversation moving forward.

Step 6: Close the Deal

• Once an agreement is reached, confirm the details and express gratitude.
• Follow up promptly with any necessary documentation, like contracts or invoices.

Conclusion

Successful negotiation is about preparation, communication, and compromise. By using key phrases and strategies outlined in this tutorial, you can approach negotiations with confidence and achieve better outcomes. Practice these techniques in your next negotiation to see how they can enhance your effectiveness.