1. Introduction to negotiations
Negotiation is presented as a structured process rather than a set of improvised moves. Participants clarify key definitions and common myths, distinguish between hard, soft and partnership-based approaches, and map the main stages and elements of negotiation.
- what negotiations are – definitions and myths,
- types of negotiations: hard, soft, partnership-based,
- negotiations as a process – stages and key elements.
2. Preparation for negotiations
Before entering the room, negotiators need a clear view of interests, limits and available options. This part covers goal setting, BATNA and boundaries, collecting relevant information, assessing the context, and translating analysis into strategy and negotiation scenarios.
- analysis of own interests and those of the other party,
- defining goals, BATNA and negotiation boundaries,
- gathering information and analyzing the context of the talks,
- planning the strategy and scenarios of the talks.
3. Psychology of negotiation
Cialdini and Kahneman provide a framework for understanding how people decide and respond under influence. Participants examine emotions in negotiation, links between personality types and negotiation style, and ways to build trust and credibility during the relationship.
- mechanisms of influence and persuasion (Cialdini, Kahneman),
- emotions in negotiations – how to manage them,
- personality types and negotiation style,
- how to build trust and credibility.
4. Communication in negotiations
Effective negotiation depends on how information is exchanged and interpreted. The section develops active listening, questioning, paraphrasing and clarification, while also covering body language, common communication errors, and the use of influence and argumentation in discussion.
- active listening and asking questions,
- paraphrasing, clarification and body language,
- avoiding communication errors,
- influence and argumentation techniques.
5. Negotiation techniques
From the first offer to the final agreement, technique shapes the course of the conversation. The section focuses on opening moves, managing concessions and compromise, negotiating price, terms and deadlines, and choosing appropriate methods for closing negotiations.
- techniques for opening and conducting conversations,
- tactics of concessions and compromises,
- negotiating price, terms and deadlines,
- techniques for ending negotiations.
6. Difficult situations and conflicts
Pressure, manipulation and deadlock can quickly derail even well-prepared talks. Participants learn to recognize difficult behaviors, respond assertively without escalating conflict, set boundaries in conversation, and regain movement when negotiations reach an impasse.
- recognizing manipulation and pressure,
- dealing with a difficult partner,
- setting boundaries and assertiveness in conversation,
- getting out of a negotiation impasse.
7. Negotiations in a team and online
When several people negotiate on one side, clear roles and disciplined communication become critical. This part addresses cooperation with internal stakeholders such as sales or legal teams, and shows how remote talks differ in etiquette, tools and interaction dynamics.
- roles and communication in team negotiations,
- cooperation with an internal partner (e.g. sales team, legal),
- remote negotiations – etiquette, tools and differences in dynamics.
8. Practical workshops and simulations
Real-life cases and role-play tie the full program together in a practical format. Participants work through complete negotiation scenarios, test preparation, communication and closing techniques, and then review decisions, reactions and outcomes to strengthen repeatable habits.