Negotiation is never about extracting the most for yourself. Many people don’t see negotiation as a creative problem-solving process. They see it as haggling or bargaining.
 
The point isn’t just to reach an agreement—but to reach an agreement that meets your needs as best as possible. One of the critical techniques in Negotiations, which I touch upon in my Emotional Intelligent leader program, is PSS (Post Settlement Settlement).
 
Once the negotiation is complete, ask the counterparty before you get to an agreement and sign,
 
Is there a way to optimize an agreement that’s already been made?
Is there still time to make it better?
Can we make this better for both of us?
 
You want to do so after an agreement has been reached.
 
Why?
 
PSS gives space to add value and generate synergies; since the basic framework is there, it paves the way for creative ideas. When the pressure is off, both parties can think more creatively.
 
PSS can strengthen the relationship and create a long-lasting foundation of trust and mutual benefit.
 
The essence of excellent negotiation is maximizing value for all parties.