Negotiate Anything cover image

Negotiate Anything

Building Common Ground: Key Steps Before Starting a Negotiation with Brandon Mitchell

Jan 10, 2025
Brandon Mitchell, an accomplished transactional lawyer specializing in M&A and reinsurance, shares his expertise on effective negotiation strategies. He emphasizes the importance of establishing a common understanding before negotiations begin. The conversation highlights how emotions and perceptions can impact outcomes, advocating for patience and curiosity. Real-world anecdotes illustrate the power of perspective-taking to foster productive dialogues, making it a valuable listen for anyone aiming to improve their negotiation skills.
26:12

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Establishing a common understanding of facts and perceptions before negotiations is vital for reducing miscommunication and promoting productive dialogue.
  • Curiosity and patience are essential traits in negotiations, as they encourage open discussions and help address emotional reactions effectively.

Deep dives

Establishing Common Understanding

Before entering a negotiation, establishing a common understanding among parties is crucial. This involves ensuring that all sides agree on the basic facts of the situation, which can help clarify perspectives and reduce miscommunication. For example, if one party believes the sky is gray while another insists it is blue, addressing the specifics—such as the time and conditions under which each party is forming their opinion—can lead to a productive discussion rather than futile arguments. By understanding where each side stands, the negotiation can progress more smoothly and focus on finding common ground.

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