In our ideal world, business deals would always be wins. Every client we contact leaps at the opportunity to work with us (at full asking price!), each vendor we get a quote from comes in under target (and throws in a few bonuses!), and every agreement moves swimmingly from hello to handshake.

But in reality, our businesses aren't quite such smooth sailing. Despite best efforts and investing all sorts of energy we can end up stuck in discussions that aren't going anywhere. And then what? Do we keep trying? Settle for whatever deal we can cobble together? Or do we walk away - and live to negotiate another day.

We'll be taking a look at how to make that decision - how do you know when it's time to walk away from a negotiation? Read on to find out...

Small Business, CorporateDevon SmileyNovember 15, 2017article, negotiation consultant, contracts, patience, guidelines

Negotiation Is Not A Race (why it's ok to slow down, have a break, or take a step back in your business)

Measure twice, cut once. Look before you leap. Slow and steady wins the race. All valid…so why do we treat negotiations, and our businesses like a race of closing, signing, launching and shipping?

I come with two settings – All In and No Way José. I simply cannot half-ass anything when it comes to my business, or life…and here’s why that’s ok by me.