You Don’t Get What You Deserve. You Get What You Negotiate.
Negotiation can be one of the most stressful parts of any deal. Whether you're hiring a skilled IVF professional or seeking fair compensation as a freelancer, the way you negotiate often determines the outcome. The goal is not to win at someone else's expense. It is to reach an agreement where both parties feel valued, respected, and satisfied.
One of the most balanced ways to enter a negotiation is with the mindset of aiming for fairness. It is not about overpaying or underpaying. It is about understanding what is reasonable and ensuring that expectations align on both sides. This approach promotes mutual respect and sets the stage for long-term collaboration.
Information Creates Advantage
Every successful negotiation begins with quality information. In the same way a car dealer knows the cost of the vehicle and the value of your trade-in, employers and freelancers should know the going rates, market demand, and relevant benchmarks. Without this data, it becomes easier for one side to feel uncertain or to accept terms that do not reflect their value.
Hiring teams that understand the true market value of experienced fertility expert or per diem professionals are better equipped to make competitive offers. Freelancers who know what similar roles pay and how their unique skills fit into the current market will feel more confident setting their rates.
Know When to Say No
A strong negotiator is prepared to walk away if needed. Saying yes too quickly can lead to regret or missed opportunities. Some of the best outcomes happen when someone steps back, re-evaluates, and waits for the right fit. Saying no to pressure often creates space for a better offer or a stronger agreement.
Let the Other Side Speak First
There is value in patience. Allowing the other person to speak first can reveal more than expected. In some cases, silence creates room for the other party to reconsider or even improve their offer. It is a simple yet powerful strategy that can shift the momentum of a conversation.
Aim for Mutual Benefit
The best deals come from understanding what the other side values. Instead of asking how far someone can be pushed, consider where they would feel good about ending up. That difference can make or break a long-term working relationship.
If one side feels pressured into an agreement, resentment may follow. But if both parties feel the outcome was fair, trust is built. This is especially important in the IVF industry where partnerships are built on trust, reliability, and consistency.
Make Every Agreement Official
Handshake deals feel friendly, but they can easily lead to misunderstandings. Memories fade, details shift, and verbal agreements leave room for interpretation. Always follow up with written confirmation. It is not about distrust. It is about clarity and accountability.
Learn from Children
One of the most insightful perspectives on negotiation comes from observing children. They naturally do four things that many professionals forget. They aim high because they expect more. They treat the word “no” as a starting point. They form alliances, starting with whoever is most likely to support them. And they persist. They wear people down with consistency and belief.
These qualities serve anyone in a negotiation. Expect more. Don’t take rejection personally. Find advocates. Stay committed to your goals.
Final Thought
Negotiation is not about what is deserved. It is about what is agreed upon through clarity, preparation, and mutual understanding. Whether working as a freelancer or hiring an experienced talent, the most successful partnerships are built on thoughtful and fair negotiation.
Credit: Harveymackayacademy.com