Conversations, Not Confrontations: Learning the Art of Negotiation with Wudan Yan

In this episode, Austin L. Church talks to journalist, freelance writer, and coach Wudan Yan about the art of negotiation. The driving force behind The Writers' Co-op, Wudan tells the story of her transition from journalism to freelance narrative writing and sheds light on the two different cultures with their sets of norms.

Wudan goes on to share how her upbringing and academic background provided very little preparation for the freelance world where negotiation is often necessary. 

When teaching freelancers and consultants how to negotiate, Wudan frames back-and-forth as a dialogue or conversation, not a confrontation. 

Her personal journey and insights prove that negotiation can be a fulfilling and rewarding aspect of the freelance journey, even if it doesn’t come naturally to you. 

If you’ve ever felt uncomfortable during a negotiation or felt like your skills are lacking, you’ll be glad you found this episode. 

Key points

• Wudan’s Journey from Science to Narrative Writing (01:53)
• Negotiating a raise for the first time (17:44)
• Wudan's negotiation journey montage (25:37)
• Negotiating rush projects and rush fees (25:51)
• The importance of a conversational approach in negotiations (28:43)
• One simple yet profound tactic to become a master negotiator (36:58)

Notable Quotes

• “You're never going to get what you don't ask for, and you can never get more than the maximum of what you're asking for."
• "Negotiating is a conversation. If both you and I are setting really hard boundaries around things, there's no meeting in between."
• "Ask questions that invite a response.”

Resources & Links

• Business Redesign Group Coaching Program
• $300K Flywheel for Freelancers & Consultants
• The Writers' Co-op
• Jim Dethmer: Leading Above the Line
• Connect with Wudan Yan on Instagram and LinkedIn

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