Leave Both Sides Feeling Good
Practical ways to leave both sides feeling good, because good feelings protect the deal and the future.
A fair deal feels fair. End with warmth.
10 tips that really help
These ideas come from Never Split the Difference (Chris Voss), Getting to Yes (Roger Fisher and William Ury), Start With No (Jim Camp), and everyday practice. The first six help the most. Pick one and try it today.
A fair deal feels fair
Both sides should leave feeling respected and satisfied with the result.
Aim for it.
Say thank you sincerely
Gratitude leaves a lasting positive impression.
Mean it.
Credit their ideas
Acknowledging what they contributed builds goodwill.
Name one.
Share the win
Frame the result as a success for both.
Say so.
Plan the next steps
A clear plan keeps momentum.
Propose them.
Send a warm note
A kind message after the deal strengthens the relationship.
Write one.
Keep your promises
Delivering on the agreement is the best finish.
Follow through.
Feelings last
People remember how it ended.
Care.
Say thank you
Gratitude.
Mean it.
Check their comfort
Care.
Ask.
Easy things to say
When you are stuck, pick one of these. They work in many sales conversations.
“Thank you for working so well with me.”
“I feel this is fair to both of us.”
“Your ideas improved this.”
“I look forward to working together.”
“Are you comfortable with this?”
“Warm regards.”
Your first week
One small action a day. Each day is only a little bigger than the last.
Say thank you
Credit their ideas
Check their comfort
Avoid gloating
Plan next steps
Send a warm note
Review
Further reading
- Never Split the Difference (Chris Voss)
- Getting to Yes (Roger Fisher and William Ury)
- Start With No (Jim Camp)
The tips above are written in our own words and are general guidance. The books are suggestions for further reading.
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Start freeThese lessons share general learning and everyday ideas. They are not medical or mental health advice. If you feel very anxious, low or unwell, please talk to a doctor or a qualified professional.
More lessons in “Negotiate Without Fear”
Keep going. Small steps every day make a big change.
← Previous: Put It in Writing the Same DayNext: Do Not Celebrate Too Soon →
- Know Your Goals and Your Limits
- Find Your Best Alternative
- Research Their Needs and Pressures
- List What You Can Give and What You Need
- Set Your Opening Position
- Plan Your First Three Sentences
- Decide Your Walk-Away Point
- What They Say vs What They Need
- Ask "Why Is That Important to You?"
- Look for Win-Win Trades
- Separate the Person From the Problem
- Create More Options Before You Decide
- Use Fair, Objective Standards
- The Pie Is Bigger Than You Think
- The Power of Calm
- Let Them Say "No" First
- Open-Ended "How" and "What" Questions
- Use "How Am I Supposed to Do That?"
- Mirror and Pause
- The Late-Night FM DJ Voice
- Let Them Talk Themselves Into It
- Never Give a Discount for Free
- Trade, Do Not Just Give
- Hold Your Price With Confidence
- Respond to "That Is Our Budget"
- Use Odd and Precise Numbers
- Bundle Instead of Cutting Price
- When to Walk Away
- Handle a Pushy Negotiator
- Respond to a Deadline Threat
- When They Say "Take It or Leave It"
- Deal With Silence and Stalling
- Stay Polite When You Are Angry
- Negotiate With Someone More Senior
- Summarise Every Agreement Out Loud
- Put It in Writing the Same Day
- Leave Both Sides Feeling Good
- Do Not Celebrate Too Soon
- Protect the Relationship After the Deal
- Learn From Every Negotiation
