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What does a Negotiator do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

A negotiator is a person who tries to reach an agreement between two people or groups who have different ideas.

Negotiator job duties include:

  • Research and analyze data to support negotiation strategies
  • Develop and present proposals to convince the other party to agree to specific terms
  • Negotiate contract terms and conditions with vendors, suppliers, or other business partners
  • Resolve conflicts between the company and another party through mediation or arbitration
  • Manage risk exposure by analyzing legal documents and identifying potential areas of dispute
  • Prepare reports detailing progress and outcomes of negotiations
  • Train other employees in negotiation techniques and strategies
  • Develop long-term relationships with key vendors, suppliers, or other business partners
  • Stay up-to-date on industry trends and developments to identify new opportunities for negotiation

Negotiator Job Requirements

The job requirements for a negotiator vary depending on the company. However, most companies require a minimum of a bachelor's degree in business or a related field. In addition, many companies require certification in negotiation from an accredited program. Some companies also require experience in the field of negotiation, such as working as a mediator or in a customer service role.

Negotiator Skills

  • Communication
  • Listening
  • Persuasion
  • Problem solving
  • Creativity
  • Flexibility
  • Emotional intelligence
  • Cultural awareness
  • Patience
  • Confidence
  • Knowledge of the subject matter

Related: Top Negotiator Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Negotiator

In order to become a negotiator, one must first develop strong communication and interpersonal skills. Negotiators must be able to effectively communicate with both parties involved in a dispute in order to find a resolution that is acceptable to both sides. They must also be able to build relationships of trust and respect with both parties.

Negotiators must also have strong problem-solving skills. They must be able to identify the key issues at stake and come up with creative solutions that address the needs of both parties. In addition, negotiators must be able to handle difficult emotions and conflict. They must be able to stay calm and focused in order to reach a successful outcome.

Related: Negotiator Resume Example

Related: Negotiator Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

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Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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