Negotiation Boot Camp

Haggling is part of ordinary life, whether you are pitching for a client, asking for a raise, buying a home or car, lowering a phone bill, or working through a disagreement with a partner or friend. Ed Brodow, a negotiation specialist, sets out a training course aimed at helping readers resolve these disputes in a fair way that leaves both sides satisfied. The book treats the craft like a drill-based program with a practical, results-first attitude.

The lessons begin with the inner obstacles that undermine people at the table, such as the fear of confrontation and habits that keep them from speaking up. Readers learn to recognize their own negotiating style, size up the other party's strengths and weaknesses, and draw concessions without surrendering what matters most to them. Other chapters cover listening carefully enough to understand the opposing position, keeping emotions from derailing talks, building enough trust that the other side feels like a partner rather than a rival, and getting past deadlocks to close the deal.

Brodow illustrates each point with real cases, showing that many everyday purchases and bills, including department store items, medical charges, loan rates, phone plans, and credit card fees, are more open to negotiation than most people assume. The book is aimed at anyone who wants to build the confidence and skill to get better results at work and in personal life.