Steering Through Negotiation: Lessons from a Kayak and Beyond

Playwright and negotiation expert shares five transformative lessons about negotiation, sparked by an unexpected lesson in a two-person kayak during her honeymoon. She redefines negotiation as a process of steering relationships, not battling for control. Key takeaways include the power of curiosity, starting with self-reflection, and understanding silence as a tool. Rather than viewing negotiations as adversarial, she advocates for turning your opponent into a partner, working together toward common goals. Through humor and personal anecdotes, she demonstrates how leading with curiosity and empathy creates not only better deals but also stronger relationships.