The Best Negotiators: Mark Cuban's Two Key Strategies for Success

Mark Cuban, the billionaire entrepreneur and investor, has shared his insights on successful negotiations, highlighting two key strategies that the best negotiators employ. By mastering these techniques, individuals can enhance their negotiation skills and achieve their desired outcomes.

Firstly, successful negotiators are patient and do not rush into decisions. Cuban, known for his role as a judge on ABC's "Shark Tank," often practices patient silence, allowing his fellow panelists to share their thoughts and questions before making investment offers. This approach enables him to gather information, assess the competition, and make informed decisions. By remaining patient and observant, negotiators can gain a better understanding of the situation and the parties involved, ultimately leading to more favorable outcomes.


Secondly, the best negotiators focus on getting what they want, rather than trying to "win" the negotiation. Cuban emphasizes the importance of understanding the difference between these two approaches. Winning a negotiation may involve extracting as much value as possible from the other party, potentially leading to resentment and damaged relationships. In contrast, focusing on getting what you want allows for a more collaborative and mutually beneficial outcome. By maintaining a long-term perspective, negotiators can foster stronger relationships and avoid the potential negative consequences of a purely competitive approach.


In conclusion, successful negotiators employ two key strategies: patience and a focus on getting what they want. By mastering these techniques, individuals can enhance their negotiation skills, make more informed decisions, and achieve their desired outcomes. As Mark Cuban's experiences and insights demonstrate, a patient and collaborative approach can lead to long-term success in negotiations.