Last updated on Mar 21, 2024

What is the best way to negotiate with decision makers in a different language?

Negotiating with decision makers in a different language can be challenging, but not impossible. As an outside sales professional, you need to be prepared, respectful, and adaptable to overcome language barriers and close the deal. In this article, you will learn some tips and strategies to negotiate effectively with foreign clients and partners.

1 Research the culture and context

Before you enter any negotiation, you should do your homework on the culture and context of your counterpart. Different countries and regions may have different norms, values, and expectations when it comes to business communication. For example, some cultures may value directness and assertiveness, while others may prefer indirectness and politeness. Some may appreciate humor and small talk, while others may focus on facts and figures. Some may be flexible and open to change, while others may be rigid and resistant. By researching the culture and context of your counterpart, you can avoid misunderstandings, show respect, and build rapport.

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Marcos Monterroso Godinho

CSO Chief Sales Officer | Global Executive | General Management | Board Member | International Expansion | Change & Transformation | Leadership | Linkedin Top Outside Sales Voice | Industry | Retail | FMCG | Packaging
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Cuando negocias con responsables de la toma de decisiones en un idioma diferente, es crucial demostrar respeto por su cultura y lengua. Prepararte con antelación mediante el dominio del idioma o contar con un intérprete puede facilitar la comunicación efectiva. Además, adaptar tu lenguaje y estilo de negociación para que sea claro y directo, evitando jerga innecesaria, y mostrando paciencia y disposición para comprender y respetar las diferencias culturales, contribuirá a establecer una relación de confianza y a maximizar las posibilidades de llegar a un acuerdo mutuamente beneficioso.

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Ester Romano

Pastora | Mediadora de Conflitos | Coach de Inteligência Emocional | Análista de Crítica Literária
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The first thing to do is to know the rules and the situation in a general context, analyze the situation in detail and know the point of view of the parties involved. know norms and values in a general context. always keep in mind that the best way and way out is to reach an agreement that everyone is satisfied with and that the parties involved feel welcomed and respected, and that they are satisfied with the resolution

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2 Use simple and clear language

When you negotiate in a different language, you should avoid using complex or ambiguous words, idioms, slang, or jargon. Instead, you should use simple and clear language that conveys your message and intention. You should also speak slowly and clearly, and use pauses and repetitions to emphasize your points. You should also check for comprehension and confirmation frequently, and ask questions to clarify any doubts or confusion. You should also use non-verbal cues, such as gestures, eye contact, and facial expressions, to support your verbal communication.

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Ester Romano

Pastora | Mediadora de Conflitos | Coach de Inteligência Emocional | Análista de Crítica Literária
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clear and concise communication makes all the difference in a negotiation process, I need to understand what the parties involved accept or not. Usingvoice technique, posture, language, gestures all come into play when we are intermediating these processes. but everything has to be directed and done to generate trust among the parties involved. The main thing will always be customer satisfaction

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3 Leverage interpreters and translators

Sometimes, you may need to use interpreters or translators to facilitate your negotiation. If you do, you should choose them carefully and brief them beforehand. You should look for interpreters or translators who are not only fluent in both languages, but also familiar with the industry and the culture. You should also explain your goals, expectations, and style of negotiation to them, and ask them to convey your tone, emotion, and attitude as well as your words. You should also treat them as part of your team, and show them respect and appreciation.

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Ester Romano

Pastora | Mediadora de Conflitos | Coach de Inteligência Emocional | Análista de Crítica Literária
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Interpreters and translators are extremely important parts, they have to be aligned with you, understand you in your language and figure of expression. They have to be part of the process, understand it, but never show favoritism towards anyone from the parties involved

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Maria Prieto

Professional Spanish Interpreter & Translator, Pinnacle Sales Award Winner, Curriculum Development, Author, Speaker, Influencer, Encourager
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In business negotiations across languages, the use of interpreters and translators is key for clear communication.A best practice is conducting pre-negotiation by briefing your interpreters, explaining the context, specific terminology, and objectives.This allows interpreters to accurately and ethically translate technical discussions, learn cultural nuances, and ensure communication.In a tech partnership negotiation, briefing your interpreter on the technology, its market applications, and technical specs ahead of time enables precise translation of complex concepts, preventing misunderstandings and a smoother negotiation.This is a secret weapon for a win-win outcome and mastering emotionally intelligent negotiations, to achieve success.

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4 Adapt to the situation and feedback

Negotiating in a different language requires you to be flexible and adaptable to the situation and feedback. You should be prepared to adjust your strategy, tactics, and style according to the needs and preferences of your counterpart. You should also be attentive to the signals and cues that your counterpart sends, such as their body language, tone of voice, and reactions. You should also be ready to handle any objections, questions, or concerns that may arise, and address them with confidence and tact.

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Ester Romano

Pastora | Mediadora de Conflitos | Coach de Inteligência Emocional | Análista de Crítica Literária
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In a negotiation where the parties involved will not be understanding you in your verbal language but rather by third parties I have to advise and know that everything will be under analysis. I need to be concise and really show myself in the situation and master the subject and leave the parties involved with certainty and full conviction of what is being proposed and everything in this sense even speaks to body language

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5 Follow up and confirm

After you negotiate in a different language, you should always follow up and confirm the outcome and the next steps. You should send a written summary of the agreement, the terms and conditions, and the action plan to your counterpart, and ask them to review and acknowledge it. You should also use this opportunity to thank them for their time and cooperation, and express your interest and enthusiasm for the future collaboration. You should also keep in touch with them until the deal is finalized and executed.

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6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Outside Sales

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What is the best way to negotiate with decision makers in a different language?

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2

3

4

5

6

1 Research the culture and context

2 Use simple and clear language

3 Leverage interpreters and translators

4 Adapt to the situation and feedback

5 Follow up and confirm

6 Here’s what else to consider

Outside Sales

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What is the best way to negotiate with decision makers in a different language?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Research the culture and context

2 Use simple and clear language

3 Leverage interpreters and translators

4 Adapt to the situation and feedback

5 Follow up and confirm

6 Here’s what else to consider

Outside Sales

Rate this article

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