Navigating in the world of negotiations can be challenging. It’s not just about what you say, but how you say it.

Successful people know that body language plays a crucial role in any negotiation. They understand that it’s not just about the words coming out of their mouth, but also about the nonverbal cues they send out.

These nonverbal cues can help you communicate your points more effectively, and can even give you an upper hand in negotiations.

So, let’s dive in and explore eight body language tricks that successful people use to win negotiations. Believe me, these are game-changers!

1) Maintaining eye contact

In any negotiation, the eyes play a key role.

Successful people know the power of maintaining eye contact during discussions. It’s a subtle yet powerful way of asserting one’s presence and confidence.

Eye contact sends a message that you’re fully engaged and interested in the conversation. It also shows that you’re attentive and open to the other party’s viewpoint.

But remember, there’s a fine line between maintaining eye contact and staring uncomfortably, which can be off-putting.

The trick is to keep your gaze natural and relaxed, not intense or intimidating.

It’s a simple body language trick, but it can make all the difference in how you’re perceived during negotiations.

2) Mastering the art of mirroring

I recall a time when I was negotiating a crucial deal with a potential client. I was aware that matching their body language could work in my favor, but I was skeptical about whether it was really that effective.

As the conversation progressed, I subtly mimicked their gestures and postures. If they leaned back in their chair, I did the same. When they nodded in agreement, I mirrored it.

To my surprise, this simple act of mirroring worked wonders. It created a sense of rapport and understanding. The client seemed more comfortable and open to my proposals.

This experience taught me how effective mirroring can be in negotiations. It’s a way of silently saying, “I’m on your wavelength.” But remember, subtlety is key. Overdoing it can seem insincere or even creepy.

3) Using open body language

In the animal kingdom, many species use their body posture to assert dominance or express submissiveness. Humans, although far more complex and nuanced, are no different.

Open body language, such as uncrossing your arms and legs, and facing the other person directly can communicate confidence and openness. It sends out a signal that you are receptive to ideas and willing to collaborate.

On the other hand, closed body language, like crossing your arms or turning away, can be perceived as defensive or uninterested.

So next time you’re in a negotiation, be aware of your posture. Make sure it’s communicating the message you want to send.

4) Controlling your facial expressions

Facial expressions can be incredibly revealing during a negotiation. A raised eyebrow, a smirk, or even a subtle eye roll can convey more than you might realize.

Successful negotiators are masters at controlling their facial expressions. They understand that an inadvertent show of surprise or disappointment can weaken their position.

They maintain a neutral yet engaged facial expression. This doesn’t mean maintaining a poker face throughout the negotiation, but rather to be aware of the messages your expressions are sending.

Remember, even if you feel cornered or surprised, it’s essential to keep your facial expressions in check. It’s all about showing that you’re calm, composed and in control.

5) Displaying empathy through body language

Negotiations aren’t just about numbers and facts, they’re also about people and emotions. Successful negotiators understand this.

They display empathy through their body language. They lean in when the other party is speaking, showing that they’re truly listening and care about what’s being said. Their expressions mirror the emotions of the person they’re negotiating with, subtly saying, “I understand and acknowledge how you feel.”

This sense of empathy creates trust and rapport, leading to more open discussions and ultimately, better outcomes.

So remember, next time you’re negotiating, let your body language show that you’re not just there for the deal, but for the people behind it as well.

6) Understanding the power of silence

Once, during a high-stakes negotiation, I found myself in a heated exchange. Tempers were flaring and it was getting nowhere. That’s when I decided to do something different. I stopped talking and just listened.

I realized that silence can be incredibly powerful. It allowed me to really hear what the other party was saying, and it gave them the space to express their concerns.

By being silent, I was also able to control my own reactions and emotions better. The silence provided a breather, a moment to collect my thoughts before responding.

Ever since then, I’ve understood the importance of silence in negotiations. It’s not about always having the last word, but about knowing when to speak and when to just listen.

7) Using gestures effectively

Gestures can significantly enhance your communication during negotiations. Successful people are aware of this and use gestures to emphasize key points and convey conviction.

A well-placed hand movement or a nod can be very effective in showing agreement or encouraging the other party to continue speaking.

However, it’s important to ensure that your gestures are natural and not forced. Overdoing it can distract from your message and even seem insincere.

So, remember, while words are important, adding the right gesture at the right time can make your communication even more powerful.

8) Maintaining a positive attitude

The most critical body language trick successful people use in negotiations is maintaining a positive attitude. It’s not just about being upbeat and energetic, but also about conveying optimism through your body language.

Regardless of how tough the negotiations get, they maintain a relaxed demeanor, smile genuinely when appropriate, and radiate a sense of positivity. This sends out a message that they are solution-oriented and willing to work towards a mutually beneficial outcome.

This positivity is infectious and can influence the overall tone of the negotiation, often leading to more productive and successful outcomes.

Final thought: It’s all about the connection

The nuances of human interaction are deeply intertwined with our ability to understand and respond to nonverbal cues.

In negotiations, body language goes beyond mere gestures and facial expressions. It becomes a silent form of communication, painting a picture that words often fail to capture.

Successful people understand this. They know that their body language can help establish trust, build rapport, and even tip the scales in their favor during negotiations. They recognize that these nonverbal cues are not just about portraying confidence but also about creating connections.

So next time you’re heading into a negotiation, remember these body language tricks. But more importantly, remember the power of genuine human connection.

It’s not just about winning a negotiation, it’s about understanding the other party, fostering a sense of mutual respect and working towards a solution that benefits everyone involved.

After all, successful negotiations are less about dominance and more about collaboration. It’s this understanding that sets successful people apart.