Negotiation: The Underrated Business Skill You Should Be Using Every Day

When people hear “negotiation”, they often imagine high-stakes meetings between governments or massive corporations, like how the US and China are currently hashing out tariffs for their trade deals. The truth is, negotiation exists everywhere, and it matters just as much when you’re running a small business, managing clients, or growing a team.

Let's break down some simple but powerful principles that can help us navigate conversations, deals, and even conflicts more effectively. No suit and tie are required.

Being clear and honest is the foundation behind some of the most efficient business cultures in the world, like those in the Netherlands or Germany. Businesses in these countries are well known for their direct communication. Being upfront doesn’t necessarily mean being rude; it just means skipping the fluff and saying what you mean while still being respectful. Whether you're setting project expectations with a client or discussing rates with a supplier, clarity saves time and builds trust.

Many people also walk into a negotiation ready to “win,” which usually means someone else loses. The problem with this is the inherent short-term thinking. Take Apple and its long-term supplier relationships, for example. They negotiate hard, for sure, but not in a way that burns bridges. If you want to grow something sustainable, you’ve got to think about relationships, not just results. When both sides feel heard and respected, the deal sticks and often leads to more down the line. 

Now, here’s where most people miss the mark. They focus on what they want and forget to ask what the other side cares about. Sometimes the key isn’t money. It could be flexibility, quicker turnaround times, or even just easier communication. Asking good questions and listening closely can uncover way more room for agreement than you'd expect. This works in boardrooms and everyday business. Just take a look at how small local councils negotiate with developers. It’s not just about cost; it’s also about impact, access, sustainability, or community buy-in.

Another underrated tip in negotiations is to make everyone feel like they got something. Think about it, have you ever walked away from a deal feeling like you got the short end? Not exactly motivating, right? A good negotiation should leave both sides feeling like it was worth it. Even when big powers like the US and China eventually find common ground, it will be because both sides get at least part of what they need and walk away able to do business again. For your business, this might mean compromising on price but gaining more consistent work or accepting a tighter timeline in exchange for future referrals. The key is to build agreements that feel balanced, not one-sided.

All in all, negotiation isn’t just about contracts or money. It’s about communication, empathy, and finding smart ways to work together, whether you’re talking to a client, a collaborator, or a supplier. And when it's done right, it doesn’t feel like a battle; it will feel like progress. So, next time you're about to write a client email, hash out a project scope, or discuss rates, pause and think: what does the other person need? How can we both walk away satisfied? That is negotiation at its best.

Do you need support navigating tricky conversations or setting up solid business systems? That’s what we do. Leave us a message at hi@lexandia.com, and we will be sure to respond within 24 hours.

Have a productive week.