Since, so many of the necessities of effectively leading, for the best interests of one’s organization, necessitate quality, professional negotiating skills and abilities, in order to achieve, effectively, efficiently, and in the right direction, wouldn’t it make sense, to train potential leaders, in the arts, and sciences, of the skills and directions of negotiations? After more than four decades of involvement in nearly all phases and aspects of leadership, from identifying, qualifying and training, actual and potential leaders, to consulting to thousands of these individuals, I have dedicated many hours, and focus, to what might make someone, the best leader, he can possibly be. I have also, during this period, negotiated many contracts and agreements, both, large and small, in the areas of event planning, labor contracts, and many other area, so, this article will consider how the GOLDEN approach to negotiating, using the mnemonic approach, might provide better results, etc.
1. Goals; generate goodwill; growth: Organizations either undergo continuous growth, or lose their relevance and sustainability! A leader must try to generate goodwill, and a meeting, of the minds, by starting every negotiation, focused on goals, priorities, etc. How can anyone negotiate, effectively, if he does not start, the process, focused on possessing a clear understanding, and commitment to, what is needed, and why?
2. Options; opportunities; organized; organization: Different organizations have different needs, and requirements, and therefore, these must be fully considered, prior to negotiating. It is wise to consider numerous options and alternatives, and to be prepared, to recognize the finest opportunities, and/ or create one’s own. Effective negotiating means efficiently proceeding, in the most organized manner!
3. Listen; learn; leadership: Negotiators must effectively listen, and learn, so they understand their negotiating adversary, and his needs, and priorities, also. It takes the ability to exhibit superior leadership, by taking – charge, of the situation, and keeping, on – track, towards the best results!
4. Delve deeply; discover; deliver: Go beyond the surface, and delve deeply into what is most important, and proceed accordingly! Then, clearly discover, what makes the most sense, and remain focused and committing to delivering on the most beneficial ways!
5. Empathy; energy; excellence: The better one learns and cares about others, the better, the results! When one strongly believes, in his ideas, and ideals, he will maximize his energy, in a way, which energizes all, involved. Never sacrifice your commitment to proceeding with the utmost degree of personal excellence!
6. Needs; necessities: Know your needs, rather than simply, your wish – list! Put the necessities, first, consider economics responsibly, and consider options, to achieve, what you seek!
Using the GOLDEN approach, should help you enhance the quality and results of your negotiations. Are you up to the task, and the commitment?