In the first blog in this series (http://bit.ly/2v8mXJm), I discussed the upheaval in the world job market.  Many jobs will be lost, but many will be gained.  Projections are that by 2020, a mere three years from now, 50% of the labor force will consist of Freelancers. Today in this countdown series I am discussing the number 9 skill Freelancers will need to fill these yet to be created jobs.  Negotiation!

 

Exactly What is Negotiation?

 

When we think of negotiating, what comes to mind?  Haggling over a used car or a piece of real estate?  Beating the other guy down so you get a fantastic deal?

The popular view of negotiating is that it is a win-lose deal.  If you win, the other guy loses and vice-versa

The truth is good negotiating is about achieving a win-win for everyone involved. We all engage in negotiations almost every day whether we realize it or not. Anytime people seek to agree on a task or a concept or a subject there is negotiating involved.  Negotiation is simply the process of achieving agreement on issues that leaves all parties satisfied with the results.

 

Why is Negotiating so Important?

 

As a Freelancer, good negotiation skills are crucial to your success. The first place you will use this skill is negotiating your fees with your new clients.  Freelancers are typically very well paid, and you want to be able to negotiate top dollar for your services.

Then think about having to negotiate between departments inside your corporate client to achieve the goals you were hired to produce.

How about negotiating to bring your client together with other companies to install a new process or system.

 

Where Can I Learn to Negotiate?

 

Lots of places.  And…it’s not as hard as you think.  All it takes, in the beginning, is some thought and preplanning.  You will find as you practice the process it becomes almost second nature to you.

There are lots of books.  One I just read is “Never Split the Difference.” (See the link below).  This is an excellent book written by Chris Voss, an FBI profiler. He starts every chapter with a real life negotiating experience from his long FBI career.  This is a very readable book, with basic negotiating techniques clearly explained. This book is only one of many on the subject.

There are many online courses offered by colleges and universities.  A quick search will find them for you.

Google is also an excellent source.  Google “Learning Negotiation” and you get more than 6 million results to choose from.

 

When Should I Start?

 

Now!  Even if you think you are a good negotiator, you can always learn more.  This job upheaval is already well under way and will only continue to accelerate.  Freelancing is the job of the future.  Start now to acquire these 10 skills needed to fill jobs not yet invented.  If you do, you will be ready to launch your career as a well-paid Freelancer.

Here is the link to Never Split the Difference.  Full disclosure, I am an Amazon Affiliate.