Effective negotiation strategies in business communication

Effective relationships can keep your business on track.

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Businesses are built on people; whether they are co-workers, clients or contacts, it's important to act in a way that makes sure individuals are there for you when you need them. Negotiating positive relationships comes down to keeping in the good graces of everyone you meet, both as an entrepreneur and moving up the corporate ladder.

On the Job: Be Nice to Everyone

In business, your co-worker one day can be your boss the next. Maintaining a civil and professional atmosphere in all of your business relationships will keep you in good stead with those you might need later on in your career.

On the Job: Keep an Open Mind About People

Especially in a new work environment, you might hear negative talk about individuals you haven't gotten to know yet. Don't fall into the trap of adopting another person's opinion as your own. Your own relationship with the person could be productive and beneficial if you give it a chance.

Related Reading: Effective Labor-Management Relationships

On the Job: Be a Good Listener

Showing off what you know won't ingratiate yourself to anyone; you'll just put people off. Listening and asking smart questions, in particular when you're new to a workplace, is a better strategy.

On the Job: See Beyond the Job Titles

Get to know colleagues informally as well as professionally. They or you might change positions within the company and still be required to work together; knowing Joe as the family man instead of the accountant will make the transition easier when Joe becomes the department head.

On the Job: Don't Be Too Personal Too Quick

Seeing colleagues as individuals is important; seeing them as objects of gossip is unprofessional. Even if your intent is sound, asking too many home- and family-related questions early on in a colleague relationship can create a barrier where that individual no longer wishes to talk to you, and your reputation within the company might suffer.