Negotiation Skills

Abstract

Back in the 17th century Negotiation is related to a dialogue between two or more people where a compromise or an agreement is reached avoiding argument dispute, aiming to achieve a beneficial outcome. Negotiation is one of the most important factors for a business success and this is why it is one of the main qualities employers look for when recruiting staff nowadays[1]. People negotiate everyday in their life even when they do not realize it and project management is no different, for that reason this article will focus on the importance of negotiation skills for a Project Manager to achieve the best deals in the demanding business world that is changing constantly. Improved supplier relationships, sustainable competitive advantage and managing conflicts effectively are all advantages of successful negotiations [1]. Being able to negotiate opens the door to more supportive stakeholders, better relationships with your clients and a more positive working environment where everyone feels they are getting something out of the engagements [3skills for pm]. Negotiation skills can be learned but in order to do that, it is essential that the Project Manager spends time, money and energy to learn about them and practice as much as possible to sharpen their skills and get more efficient in any situation.