English phrases for business negotiations: understanding needs and interests of your business partners. 6 exemplary conversation snapshots with audio.
Business Negotiations: Exploring each other’s interests
Party A: Could you give us an idea of what you’re expecting?
Party B: I would say a 7% discount is a fair suggestion.
Negotiator A: What’s your position on the currency of the contract?
Negotiator B: Well, I think the US dollar is the optimal currency choice. What’s your view on this matter?
Party A: What time scale are we looking at? I suggest bringing in some outside contractors to ensure that the project will be on time. What are your thoughts on that?
Party B: We don’t see it as a viable option as it would raise the price by 20%.
Negotiator A: We can offer you a 3% discount on your next purchase. Are these terms acceptable?
Negotiator B: I’m afraid not. We were hoping to get at least a 5% discount on our first order.
Party A: What delivery time are we talking about?
Party B: We normally use Fastline shipping company for each delivery, which means it will take about a week. Would that be acceptable to you?
Negotiator A: What figure did you have in mind?
Negotiator B: We were thinking of somewhere in the region of $90 per package including shipping costs and insurance.
Business Negotiations: Discussion
Is compromising a good strategy in business negotiations? Why? Why not?
How do you understand a win-win solution in business negotiations?
As a negotiator, should you mainly focus on your company’s interests or do your counterpart’s needs matter too? Why? Why not?
Written by Elena Rudaya