Enroll Course: https://www.udemy.com/course/negotiation-principles-planning-strategies-and-tactics/

In today’s competitive business landscape, the ability to negotiate effectively is not just an advantage, it’s a necessity. Whether you’re closing a multi-million dollar deal, discussing a salary increase, or simply trying to reach an agreement with a colleague, strong negotiation skills can make all the difference. That’s why I was eager to dive into Udemy’s course, ‘Negotiation Principles, Planning, Strategies and Tactics’.

This comprehensive course, broken down into four insightful modules, offers a robust foundation for anyone looking to elevate their negotiation game. The instructors draw heavily from the wisdom of negotiation guru Dr. Chester Karrass, setting a high standard from the outset.

**Module 1: Negotiation Principles** immediately immerses you in the core concepts. It clearly distinguishes between competitive and collaborative negotiation, providing guidance on when to deploy each approach, or even a hybrid. A key takeaway here is the understanding of negotiation power, with a fascinating exploration of how likability, as highlighted by Dr. Cialdini, plays a crucial role. The introduction to a ‘negotiation center of excellence’ also offers a valuable perspective for organizational development.

**Module 2: Negotiation Planning** shifts focus to the critical preparation phase. It delves into market intelligence gathering, distinguishing between macro and micro sources, which are foundational for any solid negotiation plan. The module tackles essential elements like defining your opening position, setting anchors, and, crucially, understanding your Best Alternative to a Negotiated Agreement (BATNA) – the point at which you should walk away. The discussion on delegating negotiation authority and controlling risk is particularly relevant for corporate settings.

**Module 3: Negotiation Strategy and Tactics** builds upon the planning phase. While acknowledging the vast array of tactics available, as documented in Karrass’s renowned book, this module wisely focuses on the most impactful ones. The emphasis is rightly placed on the fact that tactics are most effective when complementing a robust plan, and that predictability is the enemy of a skilled negotiator. The advice to avoid being a ‘one-trick pony’ is spot on.

**Module 4: Other Negotiation Topics** rounds out the course with a diverse and practical set of subjects. It covers vital aspects like business ethics in negotiation, the strategic creation of competition when options are scarce, and overcoming intimidation from titles or status. The course addresses the realities of virtual negotiations, offering practical tips for success in this new normal. The importance of asking insightful questions and reading body language is stressed, alongside strategies for breaking deadlocks and making concessions. The inclusion of negotiation simulations using avatars (like those offered by Mursion) and the consideration of eAuctions for price negotiation provide actionable, modern techniques.

**Overall Recommendation:**

‘Negotiation Principles, Planning, Strategies and Tactics’ is an outstanding course for anyone serious about improving their negotiation outcomes. It balances theoretical understanding with practical application, offering actionable advice that can be implemented immediately. The structure is logical, the content is rich, and the insights are invaluable. Whether you are a beginner or looking to refine your existing skills, this course provides the tools and knowledge to become a more confident and effective negotiator. I highly recommend it.

Enroll Course: https://www.udemy.com/course/negotiation-principles-planning-strategies-and-tactics/