This week, a summit is taking place in Singapore with President Trump and The North Korean Leader regarding the rouge country's nuclear program. As I have observed the preliminary moves and the set up of these negotiations, I have been looking at clues to negotiating that I can learn from these parties. The definition of negotiating is to have a discussion aimed at reaching an agreement. Key Points: 1. Each person involved must leave their ego at the door and look at the big picture 2. Make sure you know every aspect of the subject you wish to discuss. If the other party senses you are weak in knowledge of details, you open yourself to a bluff and manipulation. This leads to a dead end road of anxiety and uncertainty.
3. Have an end goal in mind, but during the discussion do not be constrained to your first offer or demand. 4. Always start off your negotiations by determining that you are discussing and an agreement will be discussed by the final decision maker. You do not want to strike a deal that you believe was an agreement only to find out it has to approved by someone higher in command. 5. Strategic thinking is very important.
A. Trading one thing for another. But remember, all the bargaining chips should be held close to your chest and revealed late in negotiations.
B. Always have something to give away without giving up your key negotiating position.
C. The first offer should be bold and be the benchmark for continuing negotiations.
D. Always be prepared to walk away at anytime.
E. Your goal should be secure; a good result without ”extracting" a pound of flesh.
F. Know your limits and boundaries.
G. Don’t let personalities and quirks stand in the way of good and successful results.
H. Think creatively, with an understanding as you discuss matters.
I. Ask the right questions. Watch for others dodging the question.
Observe body language and reaction to gauge what the other party is thinking. In the final analysis, once negotiations are complete, realize there is a performance phase. We are probably facing a crisis the magnitude you and I have not yet experienced before in our life times; Nuclear power and proliferation in the hands of a tyrant with rouge terror on his mind. Negotiation that could affect the very future of the world will begin tomorrow. Pray for these leaders. If you know Christ as the Savior and Lord of your life, you have a distinct advantage. The third person of the God's head is a resident living inside each of those who ADMIT they are sinners and BElIEVE in Jesus Christ as their Savior from sin. We must CONFESS our sins to God, repent and turn from your sins. God promises us a helper, the Holy Spirit. His attribute and gift to us is discernment. This trait adds a completely new dynamic to the art of negotiations; Spiritual discernment.