With time running out for America’s debt crisis, the showdown between Democrats and Republicans in Washington over the nation’s finances could cause disastrous consequences for the United States if officials cannot reach an agreement before next week.
While most politicians have spent the week blaming each other and pointing fingers, those of us in the world of business are watching the events unfold with a bit of apprehension – and tremendous disbelief.
After all, one of the basic tenets of business is the art of understanding how to reach an agreement.
As we know, business deals almost never go smoothly. There’s always an issue that suddenly crops up or a technicality that complicates things. And the solution is to sit down, discuss things, and come to an agreement – something that congress is apparently incapable of.
Perhaps if they were to read this Let’s Talk Business article about the importance of negotiating in business, they might actually go back to the bargaining table and work out an agreement.
Hey, President Obama and Representative Boehner – are you reading this? Good!
Here are some Ptex Practical Pointers that I always keep in mind when dealing with clients. They can be used in business settings, personal settings and – ahem – political settings as well.
- It’s Not A Baseball Game: Just ditch the win-or-lose mindset and try to make it a tie instead. Instead of focusing on what you want and trying to convince the client to give it to you, consider what the client wants and work towards a compromise.
- Keep Emotions Away: In a negotiation, it can be difficult not to let your emotions get the best of you. Try to keep your mind on the final objective without letting your personal opinions, beliefs or philosophies get in the way.
- Be Sure To Listen: A negotiation can only take place when there are two people sitting down and listening to each other. If one of those people stops listening, then there is no longer a negotiation taking place – just a fight. The only true way to get things done is by objectively listening to the other person and taking their concerns into account.
I know that these tried-and-true tips have worked well for me and I am sure they will work just as good for you.
Oh, and one more thing. If you turn on your radio shortly and hear that the debt crisis has been resolved, keep in mind that perhaps this article may have had something to do with it.
Onwards and upwards,
Meny Hoffman
