Negotiating for the Successful Entrepreneur - How Do You Do it and still get what you want?

Enter into a negotiation and trying desperately to win the contract, but still make a profit? Here are some pointers to a successful one.

First of all congratulations to do a good job to get so far - let's see if we can improve for you. I did some pretty heavy negotiating myself so I know how it can be difficult at times. First a few golden rules:

1. Both parties should leave the table feeling that the negotiations were successful and gained something from the process.

2. It's not a competition but a process which is jointly curated.

3. Leave egos, prejudices and fixed ideas behind. Bring only your willingness to listen and good manners in the room.

4. Make sure you know what you can give away, what can and what must surely give away.

5. Be respectful of the culture of the people you are negotiating with - this means not only the culture but the culture of the company - an Asian company negotiates different from a European or an American!

If you remember the above, the process is very simple:

1. Be prepared, know what you're negotiating, you want to know what the end result to be and know what your leaders are authorized to accept and will not. Learn a lot about your fellow negotiator can.

2. Bring all necessary documents to the negotiating table and have someone on hand on the phone if you need more.

3. Make the room comfortable and friendly negotiation and not intimidating, refreshments and comfort breaks regular as possible.

4. If you are the receiver of money you start. Start low and leave plenty of room to move in a middle zone that is comfortable for both parties.

5. If something is not possible at all - please explain why. Sometimes it is useful to refer to a high-level bosses that can not be - but do not give away the authority that must negotiate to completion.

6. The answer you're looking for is a Win Win

One last tip: Listen, listen, hear what is said about you and what is not said. Sometimes silence will conquer the deal .......