Get ready to level up your communication skills and master the art of negotiation with Kwame Christian, a leading negotiation expert, two-time best-selling author, keynote speaker, business lawyer and CEO of The American Negotiation Institute and host of the top-rated "Negotiate Anything" podcast. In this episode of the Connected Leadership podcast, Andy Lopata has a captivating conversation with Kwame, exploring how negotiation isn't just a transactional process, but a fundamental skill for everyday conversations, particularly in building strong professional relationships. Kwame urges us to reframe our understanding of negotiation, moving away from the "win or lose" mindset and embracing a more strategic approach that focuses on advancing our position. He outlines a powerful three-pronged approach to negotiation, encompassing offensive, defensive, and relational strategies. One key takeaway from the conversation is the importance of strategic vulnerability. Kwame emphasises that sharing information thoughtfully, without compromising your position, is essential for building trust and facilitating productive conversations. He offers practical advice on what to disclose and what to hold back, using a salary negotiation as an illustrative example. Another powerful concept highlighted is compassionate curiosity, a three-step framework for navigating difficult conversations. This framework begins with acknowledging and validating emotions, followed by getting curious with compassion through open-ended questions, and culminating in a collaborative problem-solving approach. This shift from "you versus me" to "you and me versus the problem" fosters a spirit of collaboration and trust. Kwame also tackles the common fear of offending the other party in a negotiation. He emphasises that you are only responsible for your own actions and emotions, not those of the other person. By approaching conversations with the right attitude and skills, you can protect your relationships while advocating for your needs. The episode also underscores the importance of setting a walk-away price. Knowing your worth and being willing to leave a negotiation if your needs aren't met, while challenging, ultimately safeguards your value and leads to long-term success. The power of asking questions and listening more than you speak is emphasised throughout the episode. By turning on the lights in the negotiation room through thoughtful questions, you can gain invaluable information and foster a more collaborative dynamic. This insightful episode of the Connected Leadership podcast provides practical tips and a thought-provoking perspective on negotiation, equipping you with the tools to navigate conversations with confidence and achieve positive outcomes. Connectwith Andy Lopata: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | X/Twitter| YouTube Connect with Kwame Christian: Website |LinkedIn |Instagram |YouTube The Financial Times Guideto Mentoring