How present is your ego in a negotiation?

The Challenge

The next time you have an opportunity to negotiate something, either in your personal or professional life, try to use the word "we" more often than you use the word "I."  


Why do this?

People are often nervous about negotiating for something they want. But a good negotiation is about finding the best solution for both parties, while ensuring that you own needs or desires are met in full (or as fully as possible). (By the way, if you noticed that this challenge is similar to another one you've done, you're right. It is! We developed a whole series on improving negotiation skills, and this challenge is part of that series.)

The more you practice negotiation skills, the more comfortable you'll be advocating for yourself and your ideas. 


What’s next?

After you have your next discussion that involves negotiation, look back on how this challenge prepared you. Is there anything you should do differently next time? 

Stacia Aylward

Zelos CEO Stacia C. Aylward is an executive leader and lifelong learner with broad professional experience in envisioning and leading programs, projects and teams; facilitating and teaching adults; conducting research; and developing client relationships using proven methodologies in many government and technical fields, including economics, education, healthcare, housing, non-profit governance, IT and law. Stacia holds a master’s degree in Communication and Information, a bachelor’s degree in English, a Six Sigma black belt certification, and a Coach Approach to Leadership credential.

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