Key skills for successful negotiation

The skill most sought after by Purchasing Managers is negotiation. Of all the skills mentioned in classified ads by Purchasing Managers, negotiation is the only one that appears in more than 30% of cases.

So if you are looking for a position in Purchasing, take note of the following tips.

How do you get strong negotiation skills? Here are 5 strategies...

Practicing. Negotiation is an interactive process and adynamic. The best way to improve is actually to negotiate. When you do, you need to define your goals before you start. Evaluate what you did well and what you didn't do well, and identify these points so you can learn from your mistakes.

Observe. Study other negotiators who can enlighten you on techniques and approaches you can take. Optionally ask a colleague if you can attend their next negotiation.

Use your network. Ask others Purchasing professionals from different industries what works best for them. Be careful though, someone who claims to be a good negotiator is not necessarily a good negotiator. It's up to you to sort things out.

Read. Negotiation books, that is not what is lacking! For example, read customer reviews on amazon.com before deciding which one to buy. You will probably learn one or two good techniques.

Take lessons. Negotiation training can not only help you improve your performance as a negotiator, but it also seems that this is very well seen in a resume.

Do you see other skills needed?

What is a smart contract?

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