Negotiating can be a challenging game, especially when faced with tough questions that catch you off guard. However, with the right strategies and preparation, you can confidently navigate these tricky situations and come out on top! Here, we'll explore effective techniques for handling difficult questions, avoiding blindsides, and leveraging research to enhance your negotiation skills.
Stay Cool, Stay Composed
When confronted with a hard question, it's crucial to keep your cool and stay composed. Take a moment to pause, collect your thoughts, and respond in a calm and composed manner. Avoid getting defensive or agitated, as this can weaken your negotiating position. Remember, maintaining your composure demonstrates confidence and control, which can work in your favor.
Redirect the Conversation
If a question puts you in an uncomfortable position, you can redirect the conversation to focus on your strengths and what you bring to the table. Shift the focus from the question itself to the value and benefits you can offer in the negotiation. Highlight your unique selling points and steer the conversation in a positive direction that aligns with your negotiation objectives.
For example, you can say, "That's a great question, but before we dive into that, let me share some key points about..."
Leverage Research
Do your homework and be armed with relevant data, statistics, or quotes from reputable sources that support your points. This not only enhances your persuasive power but also demonstrates that you are well-prepared and knowledgeable, which can boost your negotiation credibility.
Disarming a difficult question
Salary negotiations can sometimes involve tough questions that catch you off guard, such as "How can you guarantee you will meet the hours you promise?" Here's how you can effectively disarm this question:
Acknowledge the Concern: Show empathy towards the questioner's concern. You could say, "I understand that meeting the hours I promise is an important aspect of the job requirements, and I take it seriously."
Highlight Your Capabilities: Share information about your capabilities and experience that demonstrate your ability to meet tight deadlines. For example, you could say, "Based on my previous experience, I have a proven track record of successfully delivering projects on time, even in high-pressure situations."
Provide Evidence: Offer evidence to support your reliability. You could mention references from satisfied clients/managers who can vouch for your ability to meet deadlines. For example, you could say, "I have received positive feedback from my previous employers and clients, who have commended my commitment to timely delivery."
Offer Solutions: Propose solutions or strategies that showcase your commitment to meeting the hours promised. For example, you could say, "I am proactive in managing my workload and prioritize tasks to ensure timely completion. I also believe in regular communication and progress updates to avoid any delays and ensure smooth workflow."
Redirect the Focus: If the question puts you in an uncomfortable position, you can redirect the conversation to focus on the overall value and benefits you bring to the negotiation. For example, you could say, "Let's discuss how we can work together to achieve success in this role. Allow me to highlight the value I can bring to the team through my skills and experience."
If you are serious about boosting your income by gaining the skills necessary to determine your worth and asking for it, sign up for my Free Training Course, "Know your worth and fight for it: 7 Easy Steps to Negotiating the Job Offer of your Dreams"
