In almost any given situation, it’s possible to come to an agreement that satisfies everyone involved. There doesn’t need to be any arguing or heated word exchange, even if you’re trying to negotiate with your kids about their homework. Most negotiations can end nicely if you follow the tips below given by Michel Sloopka, a negotiating coach.

Use a Listening Ear, Not a Chatty Mouth

It’s good if you know exactly what you need and want in a situation, and it’s especially good if you have some ideas how to get to that point in a conversation with a potential client. However, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t listen to what the other side wants first – and listen well. “Then you know what you are dealing with,” Sloopka says. “If you are looking to buy a car and the price isn’t in the window, you ask how much the car is, you don’t tell them how much you are willing to pay for it.”

Learn and Follow “The Process”

The Process is as follows:
- Figure out where everyone stands through asking questions and conversation.
- Ask more information about things like budget and needs of the company.
- Talk about it and reach a compromise through more conversation.

It really is as simple as that, even if you doubt it is. “Actually it is,” says the negotiating coach. “Look for a common ground. For example, if you are buying a house, the seller states his opening position, you state yours, you ask what is included in the house, and then you find out what you and the seller can comprise [sic] on.”

Under What Circumstance

When things go south or you reach an impasse, remember the secret words: “under what circumstance”. Under what circumstance can I get my phone bill reduced – and under what circumstance can I get this service for a better price? “Using this phrase is an effective way of understanding what the other side wants, and until you know that, you won’t be able to reach a compromise,” Sloopka states.