Negotiation Cheat Sheet

Last Updated: November 21, 2025

Preparation

Know your BATNA
Best Alternative To Negotiated Agreement
Research
Know the other party's situation
Set your limits
Know your walk-away point
Practice
Rehearse key points

Tactics

Tactic Description
Anchoring Make the first offer to set expectations
Mirroring Repeat their last words as a question
Silence Let them fill the silence
Good Cop/Bad Cop One tough, one sympathetic
Win-Win Find solutions that benefit both parties

Do's and Don'ts

Do Don't
Listen actively Make it personal
Ask open questions Accept first offer
Be patient Show desperation
Build rapport Make ultimatums early
💡 Pro Tip: The person who cares less typically has more power - don't show desperation!
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