Why Status Beats Strategy — And How to Build It from Scratch

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May 3, 2025

Shaahin Cheyene, a serial entrepreneur and creator of a billion-dollar company, joins to unveil the secret power of status in negotiations. He explains how status can silently dictate your influence and success. Listeners will discover actionable strategies to boost their own status from scratch. Cheyene's insights reveal why some consistently win at selling and pitching, ultimately challenging the notion that strategy alone is key to negotiation triumphs. Learn how to master the art of being taken seriously, even when you're starting from zero.

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ANECDOTE

Martial Arts as Negotiation Metaphor

Shaahin Cheyene shares a story about how learning martial arts mirrored his journey to mastering negotiation.
He compares beginner confusion and mastery fluidity to negotiation skills development and intuitive influence.

ADVICE

Build Status to Lead Negotiations

Establish high status and authority early in negotiations to influence outcomes effortlessly.
Let the other party qualify themselves to you, reversing typical sales dynamics and increasing your leverage.

INSIGHT

Status Over Strategy in Negotiation

Negotiation impact varies greatly depending on social status even if tactics are identical.
High status people influence decisions more effectively, sometimes making detailed strategy less critical.

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The Psychology of Persuasion

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In this highly acclaimed book, Dr. Robert B. Cialdini explains the psychology behind why people say yes and how to apply these insights ethically. The book outlines six universal principles of influence: Reciprocation, Commitment and Consistency, Social Proof, Liking, Authority, and Scarcity. The new and expanded edition includes a seventh principle, Unity, along with new research, insights, and examples. Cialdini uses memorable stories and relatable examples to make the subject accessible and easy to understand, helping readers become more skilled persuaders and defend themselves against unethical influence attempts.

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