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Negotiation Preparation Checklist

A preparation checklist for a negotiation: your position, the other side, your plan and your delivery.

What this tool does

A preparation checklist for a negotiation: your position, the other side, your plan and your delivery.

How to use

  1. Work down the list and tick each item as you finish it.
  2. Ticks are saved on this device, in your browser, so they are still there when you come back.

What this checklist covers

The list has 4 groups and 14 items.

  • Know your position (5 items): Define your BATNA (Best Alternative To a Negotiated Agreement); Identify your must-haves vs. nice-to-haves; Set your target outcome and walk-away point; Prepare supporting data and evidence; Review any relevant contracts or precedents
  • Know the other side (4 items): Research the other party thoroughly; Identify the other party's likely interests; Anticipate objections and counter-arguments; Prepare questions to uncover their priorities
  • Plan your moves (3 items): Plan your opening offer strategy; List potential concessions you can make; Plan the negotiation environment and timing
  • Prepare to deliver (2 items): Practice your key talking points; Develop rapport-building conversation starters

Tip: Work through it before the conversation, not during it. Ticks are saved on this device.

Limitations

  • This is a general preparation list, not advice on strategy, law or contracts. For important agreements, consider professional advice.
  • It does not know your goals, the other party or the stakes, so add steps that matter for your case.
  • Ticks are saved only in this browser on this device.

FAQs

Q: Is this checklist for a particular kind of negotiation?
A: No. Everyone starts with the same list of 14 general preparation steps that can apply to a salary talk, a purchase or a business deal. It does not ask about your situation. You can add your own steps and remove the ones you do not need.
Q: Does it suggest an offer or a walk-away point?
A: No. It only reminds you to set your own. It does not calculate or recommend any figures.
Q: Are my ticks saved?
A: Yes. Ticks are saved in your browser on this device and are not sent anywhere. They do not follow you to another device or browser.

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