How to resist last-minute pressure  

by Henk Botha  FIAC  B.IUR  LL.B
© 2000 Bellstone Training (International) Limited
You may not reproduce this Report without the express written permission of Bellstone Training (International) Limited, 40 Craven Street Charing Cross London WC2N 5NG England

The most dangerous time in a negotiation is when deadline pressures increase. Inexperienced negotiators unnecessarily give away big concessions. Here are some ways to prepare yourself to resist these pressures:
1. Use the Future Shaping technique. Expect these pressures. Then, mentally prepare yourself to deal with them when they do occur. Will you risk a high target and a possible deadlock?
2. Revise your WAP (Walk-Away-Point). Is it based on objective information, or is it a WTP (Wishful-Thinking-Point)?
3. What pressures affect your counterpart?
4. If you deadlock, is it possible for the negotiations to resume later?
5. Resist intimidation. If you bow to pressure by making a concession, you are rewarding your opponent for it. She will remember it and repeat it in future negotiations.