Negotiation is the ability to communicate with different people who have different interests, aiming to find a win-win solution that benefits everyone. Good negotiation skills are crucial for resolving conflicts and reconciling differences in business, politics, and daily life. The different groups in a negotiation are called sides or parties. Negotiation starts when one party makes an offer or proposal, which is the initial idea to resolve the issue. The other party may respond with a counter-offer or counter-proposal, and the discussion continues. To reach an agreement, both sides may need to compromise or make concessions, adjusting requirements to align with the other party’s interests. Trade-offs may occur, exchanging one thing for another. Bonuses can be offered to make the deal more attractive. Some points are non-negotiable and cannot be changed. Complex negotiations may require several rounds. If talks stall, the negotiation is deadlocked or at an impasse. A mediator can help resolve deadlocks. Progress resuming is called a breakthrough, while total failure is a breakdown. A deal breaker is a point preventing any agreement.

Now let’s look at specific phrases. Usually, "we" is used for company or group negotiations; for individuals, use "I." To make a proposal: "We propose…" or "We would like to…" are polite alternatives to "We want." To respond: "Regarding your proposal, our position is…" or "As far as your proposal is concerned, we think…" For a counter-proposal: "May we offer an alternative?" or "From our perspective, a better solution is…" Concessions are often introduced with: "We would be willing to…" or "We’d be prepared to…" Conditional concessions use "if," "as long as," or "provided that." Examples: "We would be willing to increase our offer if you give us a 10-year guarantee." or "We’d be prepared to sell the property as long as full payment is made within one year." These clarify expectations.

If the other party expresses doubts, reassure them with: "Let me assure you that…," "I can promise you that…," or "Have no doubts that we will…" To politely reject a proposal: softer refusals: "I’m afraid that doesn’t work for us." Stronger refusals: "I’m afraid that’s completely out of the question." "Completely out of the question" means something is entirely unacceptable. To delay: "We’d like to consult with our colleagues or lawyer about this," or "Let’s meet again once we’ve had some time to think." These maintain professionalism while buying time.

Common expressions to close a deal and finalize agreements: "That’s acceptable to us," "I believe we have an agreement," "You’ve got a deal," "Let’s shake on it," and "Let’s get this in writing." "Let’s shake on it" refers to a handshake to confirm agreements, while "let’s get this in writing" formalizes the contract. Contracts are often divided into articles or clauses detailing terms and conditions, sometimes with an appendix. Signing makes a contract effective, legally valid, and binding. Breaching terms is a breach of contract. Contracts may be terminated or successfully fulfilled; once fulfilled, they are completed and closed.

These contents were collected by Xiao Wu from qicai.com, covering business English listening for courses, speeches, meetings, negotiations, and phone calls, hoping you gain valuable insights!