Would you risk being embarrassed to be a better negotiator? According to our research, some of the biggest fears of asking for what you really want is saying the wrong thing, interrupting someone, being embarrassed, and hearing “no.”
What is a greater risk than to do Improv? The place where you never know exactly what to say in a very public and potentially embarrassing situation. Like a negotiation, improv requires you to think on your feet, deal with change, and provides a chance to collaborate. As Improv performers and dealmakers will affirm, practicing and feeling the fear helps you survive bigger challenges in the future and gain better outcomes.
Turns out that “Yes, and…” (the golden rule of Improv) is also the secret sauce to speaker and negotiator success. Contrary to the popular belief of saying “no” at the beginning of a negotiation, look for a way you may be able to say, “yes” to requests. Ask people for the good reasons behind their asks. You may find that there is a way you can help them that doesn’t harm your position.
❓Where have you been vulnerable or risked embarrassment to become better?
❓Who have you seen take a chance or risk exposure that paid off?
❓What are you willing to risk in order to obtain a bigger result?
Last week, speakers NSA North Texas took the risk and volunteered to go up on stage at McKinney’s The Comedy Arena. We stretched outside our comfort zone, laughed at our attempts, and had a blast.
Our improv event was spearheaded by the very funny Kelli Vrla, CSP, CRMC. Thank you, Kelli and NSA North Texas leadership, including our president Arlene Gale for creating this experience. Thank you, Michelle Adams, Ph.D. for creating this short video offering a glimpse into our antics that night!
Putting yourself in an uncomfortable situation was easier due to our supportive community of professional speakers and friends of the chapter.