Negotiation is a formal discussion aimed at reaching an agreement. It is an art as well as a survival skill. In this competitive and conflict-ridden world, everyone negotiates and has to negotiate in order to arrive at solutions to various problems they encounter. In real life, parents negotiate with their kids, teachers negotiate with their students, managers negotiate with their teams, etc. Some are good at negotiating while others may lack the skill of negotiating.

What are the characteristics of good negotiators? How to negotiate in English? What skills, techniques and phrases should one learn in order to negotiate effectively in English? A good negotiator should be able to cope with their emotions, think clearly, express their thoughts convincingly, use body language appropriately, listen to others at the negotiating table, and use persuasive words and phrases. Language plays an important role in negotiations. A good negotiator should be familiar with and be able to use words and phrases used in formal and informal negotiations. Let’s look at some of the phrases associated with negotiations: to reach a consensus, to arrive at a solution, conflict resolution, counter-proposal, counter-attack, hammer out a deal, reach/end in a deadlock and to haggle over the price.

I don’t think it is difficult to reach a consensus.
They’ve decided to settle their differences amicably.
After three hours of negotiations, the employer and employees hammered out a deal.
Let’s take the necessary steps to arrive at a solution.
The most important thing is to buy the item. It is not a good idea to haggle over the prices.

Assume a scenario of a salary negotiation between the HR Manager of a company and an employee. During the negotiation, they might use the following expressions/sentences:

Thanks for taking the time to respond to my email. I do appreciate your prompt reply.
I’m glad that you have raised some queries. Let me explain to you step by step.
You know it better…
I’d like to give you an idea of…
I do have a few questions.
The type of work that I do is unique…
Yes, absolutely.
The company appreciates your positive attitude.
I do understand your position. I am sure the issue can be resolved.
Why don’t you consider…?
Tell me what you think.
What I suggest will benefit both sides.

The above expressions are polite and firm. Using positive language is important while negotiating.