The first Social Media platform took flight over twenty years ago. At that time, it was a virtual playground for teenagers. Today, it has morphed into a powerful business tool.
Negotiation training is key to success in business. Many of those conversations are happening more and more on social media. These seven tips from The Negotiation Experts can help you navigate the process successfully.
Be authentic
Authenticity is essential to success in a social media environment. People can sniff out insincerity from a mile away. If you’re caught pretending to be someone that you’re not, it could taint the discussion.
So, be genuine and honest in your approach. Avoid painting a false image of who you are and what you believe. People are more likely to trust you if they sense that your words are your own.
Build a positive image
Social media is image-driven. So, it’s important to make sure you’re building a positive image. Also, people are more likely to be receptive to your requests when you have a good reputation.
Start by taking the time to share thoughtful and well-composed social media content. Also, show a sincere willingness to help others. This will go a long way in establishing your credibility and trustworthiness.
Be well prepared
The better prepared you are, the more equipped you’ll be to negotiate effectively. So, before jumping into any discussion, nail down what you want to achieve. This will help you stay focused and on track throughout the negotiation.
Also, try and identify the other person’s interests and possible objections. This will help you craft a more persuasive argument. Finally, think of a few counterarguments you can use in case your original plan falls through.
Identify all key players
Negotiating takes time and effort. So, make sure you’ve identified all key players. Overlooking a key decision-maker could bring a deal that is near completion to a crashing halt.
Similarly, know whom to bring into the conversation at the right time. The wrong people in the room can derail the conversation. So, ask your contact who else needs to be involved in the process.
To keep track of the people involved, create a list of key stakeholders and their roles. This will help you keep everyone organized and on the same page.
Read between the lines
Nonverbal cues provide a wealth of information. For instance, short, abrupt sentences might signal discomfort or annoyance. On the other hand, long, thoughtful replies may suggest a positive attitude.
So, pay attention to subtle cues that might indicate what the other person is really thinking and feeling. However, don’t make assumptions. Confirm your observations by asking clarifying questions.
Use visuals effectively
Visual aids like charts, graphs, and images are incredibly useful for communicating complex ideas quickly and effectively. When done well, they can also make a strong positive impression.
For maximum impact, personalize any visuals you plan on using. For example, if you’re presenting a product to a prospective customer, include their company logo. These small details are a great way to make your proposal more relatable.
Know the culture of the platform
Different social media platforms have different cultures. The culture of a site influences how people interact with each other. Twitter, for instance, has a more casual vibe, whereas LinkedIn strikes a more formal tone.
Understanding the culture of the platform will help tailor your negotiation style. Also, familiarize yourself with the platform’s jargon. Using the right terms will help you communicate more clearly and effectively.
Stay professional
Negotiating on social media may be more casual. Still, this doesn’t mean you should forgo basic professionalism. Maintain a positive and cordial tone.
If the discussion gets heated, take a break. If negotiations still aren’t progressing in a productive manner, consider cutting your losses. Remember, others may be watching and scrutinizing your behavior.
Negotiating on social media can be tricky. But with practice, you can optimize every interaction and come away with better results. By following the tips outlined above, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a master negotiator.
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